Learn how space weather affects Earth

In the vast landscape of the universe, Earth is not as isolated as it seems at first glance. Our planet, bathed in the gentle warmth of the sun’s rays, constantly affected by forces from space.

Although we may not be aware of it or are not in the habit of looking at celestial weather forecasts, space weather is a phenomenon that can significantly affect our lives.

What is space weather?

Dr. from the British Antarctic Survey (BAS). According to Nigel Meredith, space weather is It consists of the changing conditions of the Sun and has a huge impact on technology both in space and on Earth..

The Sun is the center of this phenomenon, with frequent explosions occurring on its surface. These solar flares carry charged particles and magnetic fields into space. When these particles reach the Earth, they interact with our magnetic field, causing storms that can damage many systems such as satellites, communication signals, aircraft, energy sources.

United Kingdom in 2012 recognized the risk was serious and included the weather conditions in the national risk register.

Monitoring the Sun and Earth’s magnetic field

To monitor space weather and its effects, researchers use a variety of tools and techniques. Some instruments are placed at the L1 point, which lies beyond the Earth’s magnetosphere. Providing data on solar wind conditions.

Satellites in Earth’s magnetosphere also contribute important data, and ground-based observations help measure space phenomena such as the aurora borealis and electric currents.

A significant threat to satellites comes from “killer electrons,” which are high-energy electrons that can penetrate satellite surfaces and cause possible electrical malfunctions and component failures.

Dr. Meredith’s team at BAS is developing models of the space climate environment, taking into account plasma waves in space. These models help predict the behavior of these killer electrons.

The Halley Research Station in Antarctica plays a key role in this research by detecting very low-frequency radio waves known as chorus emissions.

Observing space weather around the world

Halley Research Station is not the only participant in the global space weather monitoring network. It is complemented by the SuperDARN radar, which was originally based in Antarctica but is now based in the Falkland Islands.

this radar monitors electrical currents in the atmosphere and helps understand how geomagnetic storms give rise to spectacular aurorasIt also poses a risk to space debris and orbiting satellites. By monitoring these electrical currents, researchers can model their effects on space debris and satellite systems, reducing the risk of collisions.

Selective effect of solar activity

It is important to emphasize that not all solar activity affects the Earth in the same way. The direction in which this activity is directed is an important factor. in 2012 A massive solar flare poses a significant threat.

If it came to Earth it could cause problems. Fortunately, he went in a different direction, saving our planet.

Space weather forecast and sounds

With advances in modeling and observation, it is now possible to predict space weather 24 hours in advance. These estimates provide information about the radiation environment as well as a measure of risk.

Additionally, space weather was transformed into sounds. Halley Research Station identified VLF signals in the audio frequency range, making them audible to the human ear. When transformed into sounds, they create a fascinating auditory experience, with ripple sounds reminiscent of birds chirping at dawn.

Sounds may vary depending on time of day and the presence of geomagnetic storms. The cracks heard at Halley may originate in the Amazon and Congo basins, 8,000 kilometers away from the research station. These radio waves escape into space and create a melody that is influenced by the Earth’s magnetic field. The name of this song is “whistlers”.

Weather in space is not only a scientific phenomenon but also a radio broadcast that is very important to Earth. As we unravel the mysteries of this celestial symphony, we become aware of our interconnection with the cosmos, where the Sun’s actions reverberate throughout space and time, shaping our world in subtle and profound ways.

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