Solar storms set to batter Earth as NASA warns the sun is 'waking up'

"Our sun has unexpectedly begun to ramp up its activity, which could lead to more severe solar storms that cause blackouts and disrupt global communications. NASA revealed that our solar system's home star had been getting quieter and weaker for about 20 years, but that surprisingly changed in 2008 and scientists are still trying to figure out why. Scientists found that since 2008, the sun's solar wind, which are streams of charged particles, has grown stronger, with increases in speed, density, temperature,"

"Geomagnetic storms have the potential to damage power grids, leading to blackouts, interfere with satellites, and disrupt communication systems like GPS. Stronger storms could also make the Northern Lights visible in more places further south of the north pole, but the risk to technology and infrastructure will require careful monitoring."

Solar activity reversed a multi-decade weakening and has increased since 2008, with the solar wind strengthening in speed, density, temperature, and magnetic field strength. The stronger solar wind can drive more powerful and frequent solar storms, especially as the 11-year solar cycle approaches a peak around 2025–2026. Geomagnetic storms from these events can damage power grids, cause blackouts, disrupt satellites and GPS, and interfere with global communications. Increased solar pressure could expand the heliosphere while shrinking Earth's magnetosphere, exposing the planet and astronauts to higher particle radiation. Monitoring and preparedness are required to manage risks to infrastructure, satellites, and space missions.

Read at Mail Online