How solar storms can affect technology on Earth
The Sun is at the centre of all activity in our solar system. So, ever wondered what is solar activity? Well, solar activity includes coronal mass ejections, high-speed solar wind, solar flares and solar energetic particles and they all are driven by the influence of the solar magnetic field. Yes, all of it is powered by our volatile Sun. Interesting, no? So, do you know that these solar activities may also affect the technology spread across the globe and in space by humanity? Yes, these solar storms created by the Sun can have devastating effect on technology on Earth from power grids, Internet to satellites. Yes, even your mobile phone can be affected.
The Sun undergoes regular cycles of solar activity, lasting approximately 11 years, during which its magnetic field flips. This cycle starts with a "solar minimum," a period of low solar activity, followed by a "solar maximum," when the Sun is at its most active, characterized by extremely powerful sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections (CMEs).
A report from energyPortal.eu says that scientists have been monitoring these solar cycles since 1755, and we are currently in Cycle 25 and heading towards the solar maximum, expected to peak in 2024-25. This cycle has exceeded initial forecasts.
According to NASA, solar flares have an impact on Earth when they occur on the side of the sun facing our planet. These flares emit photons, which travel directly from the flare site. Hence, if a flare is visible from Earth, it can potentially affect us.
On the other hand, coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are massive clouds of plasma and magnetic fields that erupt from the sun. Unlike flares, CMEs can erupt in any direction and continue in that path. When a CME reaches Earth it can
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