# Solar Outbursts Reveal Blind Spot in Space Weather Forecasting NASA's Europa Clipper spacecraft made a discovery that poses risks for future crewed missions. - **Source:** [Gizmodo](https://brifing.si/source/63382431-cef0-4c41-883e-2f88dc21351e) - **Published:** 2026-08-19 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/e5c8d55e-de5b-4482-a154-8aa88232fb46 ## Europa Clipper's Unexpected Discovery NASA's Europa Clipper spacecraft detected an unexpected signal on December 19, 2024, two months after its launch. The Plasma Instrument for Magnetic Sounding (PIMS) picked up plasma that was hotter and less dense than usual, prompting the team to investigate further. ## Characteristics of Solar Outbursts The plasma characteristics detected by PIMS were atypical for solar wind at 17 million miles from the Sun. These features are commonly associated with coronal mass ejections (CMEs), which are massive expulsions of plasma and magnetic field from the Sun's corona. When directed toward Earth, they can trigger geomagnetic storms. ## Blind Spot in Space Weather Forecasting Researchers used observations from 17 spacecraft to map the CME's shape, size, and movement. The data revealed that the CME had a highly irregular shape, unlike typical bubble-like expansions. While Earth-based observations suggested the CME was moving south, NASA's STEREO-A spacecraft detected another part heading toward Earth. ## Risks for Astronauts The Earth-directed component of the CME also reached Mars and was detected by NASA's MAVEN orbiter. While no damage was reported, this event highlighted the radiation risks for future crewed missions. Fast CMEs can accelerate charged particles, posing serious hazards to astronauts outside Earth's magnetic field. ## Limitations of Forecasting Models This study exposed the limitations of current space weather forecasting models in detecting complex CMEs. Researchers plan to investigate whether such events are rare or simply overlooked due to insufficient observation points. This will help assess the threat they pose to future missions. ## Importance of Observation Networks The study emphasized the critical role of spacecraft positioned away from the Sun-Earth line in the observation network. Such observations will be particularly valuable as humanity ventures deeper into the solar system, contributing to the development of more accurate forecasting models. ## Protecting Astronauts Advanced warning of CMEs allows astronauts to seek shelter in better-shielded areas or adjust operations. Without accurate forecasts, preparation time is lost, exposing astronauts to high radiation levels. Improving forecasting models is crucial for the safety of future missions. ## Implications for Future Missions This study underscored the importance of accurate space weather forecasts for future crewed missions. Europa Clipper's discovery provided a real-world example of the space weather conditions astronauts might encounter. Such research can make humanity's journey into space safer and more reliable. ## Sources covering this story - https://gizmodo.com/a-hidden-solar-outburst-just-exposed-a-blind-spot-in-space-weather-forecasting-2000800096 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._