New research indicates that Earth's upper atmosphere may generate more electrical current during solar storms than scientists previously believed. The findings come from a study by NASA and Lancaster University researchers. They challenge long-held assumptions about limits on space weather effects.
The study, led by NASA's Nithin Sivadas and Maria Walach of Lancaster University, examined electric fields linked to currents in the ionosphere. Data from spacecraft nearer to Earth revealed a direct correlation between solar wind strength and atmospheric currents, with no apparent upper limit.
Previous models assumed saturation would occur due to factors like solar wind energy. Walach noted that uncertainties in measurements taken at Lagrange Point 1 likely influenced those earlier views. She called for further modeling and observations to assess potential increases in space weather effects.
The research highlights risks to satellites and astronauts, referencing past events such as the 1859 Carrington Event and the 2003 Halloween storms. Walach emphasized that Earth's magnetic field provides protection, though extreme cases remain rare and require better preparedness planning.