Solar Storm
A disturbance of near‑Earth space caused by the emission of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun.
≡Description
A solar storm is a space phenomenon that occurs when the Sun releases large amounts of charged plasma and magnetic fields that propagate through the solar wind. Upon reaching the vicinity of Earth, these structures interact with the magnetosphere, generating electric currents and altering the planet’s magnetic field. Several types of storms exist, including those caused by coronal mass ejections and by solar wind bursts, and their intensity depends on the speed and density of the plasma as well as on the orientation of the transported magnetic field. Storms can produce intense auroras, but they can also affect technological systems by inducing geomagnetic currents and modifying radio‑wave propagation.
⏱History
The concept of a solar storm was solidified after the observation of the famous 1859 storm, known as the Carrington event, which demonstrated the relationship between a solar eruption and a terrestrial geomagnetic disturbance. Since then, research has progressed with the incorporation of satellites and probes that allow direct measurement of plasma and magnetic fields in interplanetary space.
⚙Uses
In space research, solar storms are studied to understand the Sun’s dynamics and its influence on space weather, which helps predict events that could jeopardize the safety of orbital and crewed missions. In the telecommunications industry, knowledge of these storms enables the design of communication and navigation systems that are more resilient to interruptions caused by an altered ionosphere. Moreover, in the management of critical infrastructure such as power grids, solar storm models are used to anticipate and mitigate the effects of induced currents that could damage equipment and cause blackouts.
✎Examples
During a particularly strong solar storm, observers at mid‑latitudes can see aurora borealis or aurora australis that normally do not appear in those regions, because energized electrons penetrate deeper into the atmosphere. In another case, a solar storm intensifies the ionosphere, causing temporary errors in global positioning systems, which forces aviation operators to rely on alternative navigation methods until the disturbance subsides.
Added to Glosarix after appearing in a ScienceDaily article published on November 13, 2026.
