Physicists have discovered that the most powerful geomagnetic storms occur when the Sun ejects two large plasma streams simultaneously, and they collide. These events are linked to coronal mass e
Physicists have discovered that the most powerful geomagnetic storms occur when the Sun ejects two large plasma streams simultaneously, and they collide. These events are linked to coronal mass ejections—massive bursts of charged particles released into space when the Sun’s magnetic field lines reconnect and break, expelling enormous amounts of solar material.
Unlike solar flares, which are streams of photons, coronal mass ejections involve more massive particles such as protons and helium nuclei, reaching Earth within two to three days. During periods of high solar activity, up to ten such events can occur per day. If two ejections happen close together, they can collide and intensify, creating powerful clouds of charged particles.
One such double event caused the strongest geomagnetic storm in May 2024. Research indicates that most significant storms result from these ejection collisions rather than from single events. The likelihood of severe consequences on Earth doubles in these cases, increasing the risk of satellite failures, power grid disruptions, and other technological malfunctions.
Scientists emphasize that forecasting space weather has become critically important in the modern era, as humanity relies more than ever on satellite communications, electronics, and space missions.
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