In the vast expanse of space, a peculiar phenomenon has been gaining attention - space tornadoes. These swirling vortexes of charged plasma, born from the sun's fiery surface, can wreak havoc on Earth's technological infrastructure. A recent study published in The Astrophysical Journal on October 6, conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan, sheds light on the potentially devastating effects of these space tornadoes.
According to the study, solar storms can produce comparatively small flux ropes, measuring a mere 3,000 to 6 million miles wide. These compact, yet potent, space tornadoes can still inflict significant damage on Earth's electrical grids and digital systems. The researchers, led by climate and space scientist Chip Manchester, designed a novel simulation system to account for these smaller, harder-to-detect occurrences. The resulting data paints a concerning picture.
The magnetic field in these vortices can be strong enough to trigger a geomagnetic storm, causing real trouble for our planet's technological backbone. As Manchester noted, "Our simulation shows that the magnetic field in these vortices can be strong enough to trigger a geomagnetic storm and cause some real trouble." Popular Science reports that the researchers propose a solution to better prepare for these space tornadoes: a constellation of spacecraft monitors, including one equipped ← →
Just like Earth's severe thunderstorms, solar storms can cause their own kinds of havoc. In May 2024 , flares erupting from the sun's surface sent ...Related perspectives: See here
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