Internet Apocalypse: What is a solar storm and how can it impact the internet on Earth?
FAQ's
What is a solar storm and how does it affect Earth?
A solar storm is a disturbance on the Sun, which can emanate outward across the heliosphere, affecting the entire Solar System, including Earth and its magnetosphere, and is the cause of space weather in the short-term with long-term patterns comprising space climate.
What does a solar storm do to the internet?
At this time, if a similar power solar storm is generated, it could potentially lead to an 'internet apocalypse' resulting in a worldwide blackout which would be significantly damaging to communication across the globe.
How can solar winds and solar flares impact Earth?
The Sun produces a solar wind — a continuous flow of charged particles — that can affect us on Earth. It can, for example, disrupt communications, navigation systems, and satellites. Solar activity can also cause power outages, such as the extensive Canadian blackout in 1989.
How space weather and solar storms can affect life on Earth?
Space weather impacts Earth These disturbances can cause problems with radio communications, Global Navigation Satellite Systems (such as Global Positioning Systems or GPS), power grids, and satellites.