How space weather impacts Earth and efforts to protect us
The destructive effects of solar activity on technology and economy - and how we're preparing
1What is space weather?
Space weather refers to the effects of solar activity on Earth's magnetic field. Events like solar flares and geomagnetic storms can disrupt GPS systems, satellites, and power grids. The UK Met Office has established a dedicated 24/7 monitoring team to track these threats. In our technology-dependent world, space weather events have the potential to cause massive infrastructure disruptions with far-reaching consequences.
2Economic risks
Lloyd's 2025 estimates suggest a severe space weather event could cost the global economy $2.4 trillion over five years. Such events are now included in national risk registers. A Carrington-level geomagnetic storm today could be far more devastating than in 1859 due to our technological dependence. Risks include widespread power outages, communication network failures, and satellite system damage that could take years to repair.
3Early warning systems
The Met Office collaborates with Aberystwyth University researchers to enhance forecasting capabilities. They can detect solar events about three days before they reach Earth, but only have about one hour of precise warning as the event approaches. This critical window allows the National Grid to prevent outages and airlines to reroute flights away from high-risk polar regions, demonstrating the system's vital importance.
4Solar cycle and 2024 peak
The Sun reached its 11-year activity cycle peak (Solar Maximum) in 2024. While this period brings increased Northern Lights visibility, it also means multiple daily space weather events. Thanks to improved forecasting, no major technological disruptions have occurred this year. Though prediction systems remain developmental, significant progress has been made since monitoring began in 2014.
5Astronaut risks
Space weather affects not just Earth systems but also astronauts. Britain's first astronaut Helen Sharman described experiencing galactic cosmic rays during her 1991 Mir Space Station mission. These particles penetrate spacecraft materials and astronauts' bodies, causing retinal light flashes. Protection decreases beyond Earth's magnetic field, making Moon or Mars missions particularly hazardous to human health.
6History's most severe event
The 1859 Carrington Event remains the most intense geomagnetic storm on record. Its effects were so powerful that telegraph wires operated without power and emitted sparks. Worldwide auroras disrupted the newly established telegraph network. A similar event today could cripple power grids, satellite communications, and all critical infrastructure simultaneously across continents.
7Infrastructure collaboration
Since 2014, the Met Office has worked with critical infrastructure operators to provide space weather alerts. Using both ground equipment and space satellites, forecasts enable energy companies and airlines to implement protective measures. Richard Stone's team diagnoses solar anomalies, issues warnings, and helps organizations take mitigation actions to minimize potential disruptions.
8Preparing for the future
While space weather forecasting remains in its infancy, research is advancing rapidly. Professor Huw Morgan's team collaborates with Northumbria, Durham, and Reading universities to improve systems. As technological dependence grows, protection against these threats becomes increasingly vital. International cooperation must expand to develop more accurate predictions and minimize risks in coming years.
Original article: BBC News — Uzay havasının Dünya'ya etkileri ve korunma çabaları