Solar storms are caused by an
eruption from the Sun's surface (solar flare) that affects the Earth's
atmospheric activity. They have a tendency to disrupt radio feed/frequencies
from satellites and can knock out electrical feeds. The largest solar storm in recorded
history occurred in 2005. It affected satellites communications and
radio frequencies on a massive scale. Today NASA has detected a massive solar
storm, that tops the 2005 storm, will reach its peak on Tuesday January 24,
2012. This will greatly affect satellite linked devices such as GPSs,
Televisions, airline communications, etc. There is a possibility that the local
power grids may be knocked out for a short period of time because of the
atmospheric disruptions.
However there is one upside for
sightseers and tourists. There is a possibility of auras that could spread
through parts of North America, which do provide a fantastic light show for
those who are interested in ‘shinny things’.
Aside from the auras, it is crucial
to be on the lookout for the electrical disruptions that may be caused by the
storms.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/biggest-solar-storm-since-2005-underway-will-peak-tuesday/2012/01/23/gIQAivH6KQ_story.html?hpid=z2
No comments:
Post a Comment