What could a severe solar storm do to Earth, and are we prepared? – podcast

The sun is currently ramping up to hit the peak of its 11-year activity cycle. In the past few days, powerful solar eruptions have sent a stream of particles towards Earth which are set to produce spectacular auroras in both hemispheres. But these kinds of geomagnetic storms can also have less appealing consequences. Madeleine Finlay speaks to Dr Lisa Upton, a solar scientist at the Southwest Research Institute, about how the mysterious inner workings of the sun create space weather, how solar events can significantly disrupt Earth ’s infrastructure, and whether we are prepared for the worst-case scenarioRead more about the Northern lights hereContinue reading...

Source: Guardian Unlimited Science - March 26, 2024 Category: Science Authors: Presented by Madeleine Finlay, produced by Madeleine Finlay and Holly Fisher, sound design by Joel Cox, the executive producer is Ellie Bury Tags: Science The sun Astronomy Space Source Type: news