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KG · InfrastructureCurated

How solar storms can hit a technical civilisation

Summary

KG explains solar flares and coronal mass ejections and their possible consequences for satellites, radio, navigation and power grids. Space weather becomes an infrastructure risk because technical networks are coupled over large areas. Early warning time only helps if operators have prepared coordinated protective measures beforehand.

Ideas

  • Coronal mass ejections hurl magnetised plasma into interplanetary space.
  • The Earth’s magnetic field deflects particles but can produce strong geomagnetic currents in the process.
  • Long lines and transformers are particularly sensitive to induced currents.

Recommendations

  • Take space weather into account in emergency plans for energy, radio and satellite services.
  • Plan local communication and energy alternatives for when central networks fail.

References

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