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A fierce solar flare has reminded us what consequences changes in the conditions of the Sun’s surface can have for us. Strong solar storms can collapse electrical infrastructure, communications and disrupt navigation – aspects by which the modern world functions. Mint explains:
What are solar flares and do they matter?
Most solar flares are violent storms of plasma material on the Sun’s surface, producing a strong gust of charged particles or solar ‘wind’ that sweeps through space. This air carries with it a magnetic field. But our planet also has its own magnetic field—Earth’s magnetosphere is the outermost layer of our atmosphere. While this region protects us from most solar flares, very strong flares overwhelm our magnetic field, allowing charged particles from the Sun to enter our lower atmosphere. This, in turn, creates the aurora borealis – the magical northern lights – but it can also devastate any electronic or electrical system.
How are satellites and the power grid affected?
Think of a solar flare striking a satellite as a small bolt of lightning striking a gadget. If this happens, the overflow of power will damage most circuits and wiring as they charge more than our system is designed for. While satellites and power grids are protected from regular solar wind, flares can be of unpredictable magnitude, and can destroy such equipment. Due to the high concentration of charged particles, solar flares heat our atmosphere, which also affects satellites on their trajectories. Two years ago, due to this reason, Elon Musk lost about 50 satellites immediately after launching.
Is this the biggest solar storm ever?
The most violent incident was the ‘Carrington Incident’ of 1859, when the global telegraph infrastructure was disrupted. The next worst was the ‘Halloween storm’ of 2003, which demolished electricity infrastructure in South Africa and Sweden. Last week’s storm was so bad that it was rated ‘G5’ (strongest) in the official classification—making it one of the deadliest hurricanes in history.
Could these get worse in the future?
Solar storms may become worse as the sun’s surface undergoes changes as it ages. Our dependence on satellites, radio waves, lasers and electricity is more significant. For example, Starlink uses lasers to relay signals with its satellite constellation, and then broadcasts the connectivity to Earth. Most satellites talk to the ground via radio waves. Solar flares can disrupt high-frequency radio waves – and completely halt global communications. This means no internet or phone calls. Power grids may require a complete overhaul.
Then how can we protect ourselves?
We can build more global solar observatories that can predict solar storms. Early information could allow us to shut down ground stations and reorient satellites. Or we could try to build a shield to protect the satellites. Using AI to study the Sun’s behavior can further improve our safety. However, as long as we use current communications systems – radio waves, laser optics and power cables – there is no known absolute defense against a potential global blackout, which could lead to billions in losses.
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