Earth Experiences Record Increase in Geomagnetic Storms as Solar Activity Rises

Scientists are expressing concern as the Sun’s 11-year cycle has deviated from its usual pattern, leading to a significant increase in volatility. Typically, solar activity follows a predictable rise and fall, but the current situation is unprecedented. Earth is experiencing more frequent and intense geomagnetic storms, surpassing expectations. Adding to the worry is the fact that this is occurring much earlier than the projected peak in solar activity, which was anticipated to take place in 2025.

Storms multiply from the sun

According to a Science Alert report, scientists are becoming increasingly concerned as the frequency of geomagnetic storms caused by the Sun continues to increase.

While immediate danger remains unlikely, increased solar activity has potential consequences, some intriguing, others worrisome.

As for the fascinating part, these storms are responsible for amazing phenomena like the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis.

On the other hand, geomagnetic storms also cause radio outages and threaten low earth orbit (LEO) satellites. This is the case when these geomagnetic storms are not very strong. As these storms strengthen, things get worse.

The Starlink case

In February 2022, an incident dubbed the “Starlink Destruction Event” demonstrated the unexpected power of the Sun. SpaceX launched 49 satellites into a low orbit, which would not normally make them susceptible to solar interference. However, an unexpected coronal mass ejection triggered a geomagnetic storm that destroyed 38 of these satellites – the storm caused drag to increase and the satellites never reached the desired orbit, causing them to fall back towards Earth.

Most of the satellites in Earth’s orbit are placed at an altitude of more than 400 kilometers. This choice of height provides them with a level of protection against solar interference. The Starlink incident is troubling, but it is an anomaly in the context of numerous successful past releases.

Nature’s light show and constant worries

For avid sky watchers, increased solar activity not only led to the Starlink event, but also gifted the world with the spectacular Northern Hemisphere Northern Lights.