First 'intense' solar storm in 20 years brings spectacular aurora lights

Photographer Sean O'Riordan uses social media platforms Authorities informed satellite operators, airlines and power grids to take precautionary measures for possible disruptions caused by changes in the Earth's magnetic field. Elon Musk, whose Starlink satellite internet operator has about 5,000 satellites in low Earth orbit, described the solar storm as “the biggest in a long […]

Spectacular aurora: 'Extreme' solar storm brings celestial light show

Fluctuating magnetic fields associated with geomagnetic storms induce currents in long wires, including power lines, potentially causing blackouts. Long pipelines can also become electrified, causing engineering problems. Spacecraft are also at risk from high doses of radiation, although the atmosphere prevents it from reaching Earth. NASA has a dedicated team overseeing astronaut safety, and can […]