It is well-known that the sun releases a constant stream of energetic plasma in the shape of the solar wind. These particles become visible when they collide with the magnetic shield of our planet, leading to impressive auroras that can be seen at the poles. However, in some cases, the wave can be strong enough to pierce through the shield and reach our atmosphere.
When the solar winds manage to reach bypass the magnetic shield, they can cause several issues. As they compress, the magnetic field powerful blasts of radiation will affect satellites, hinder the transmission of radio signals, and cause widespread power blackouts.
A team of researchers surveyed data related to the the magnetic field of our planet in an attempt to learn more about it. They started with the earliest records, which began in 1868 and traced the most intense geomagnetic spikes to powerful solar storms. It appears that severe solar storms took in 42 out of the most recent 150 years.
Massive solar storms could take place more often in the future
It is interesting that the most powerful events, which are also known under the name of superstorms, took place once every 25 years. Researchers argue that such storms can occur more often than it seems since there is no way to observe their formation or anticipate them.
Changes in the magnetic field of our planet have been monitored with the help of two research stations, with one being placed in the United Kingdom while the other is located in Australia. During the study, the team created a list of the top 10 years with the highest levels of geomagnetic activity.
It was not surprising to learn that many of these years can be linked with intense geomagnetic storms. The most recent superstorm took place almost two decades ago, and the reliance on technology has increased exponentially. Researchers hope that they could foresee it before it takes place.
