'55 km a year': Earth’s North Pole is racing towards Russia. Here's why this is problematic
Produced by: Manoj Kumar
Pole Shift
The magnetic North Pole is moving unexpectedly fast toward Russia, raising concerns about the stability of Earth's magnetic field, according to studies.
Chaotic Core
Liquid metal in Earth’s outer core, which drives the magnetic field, is shifting unpredictably, causing scientists to struggle with accurate forecasts.
Acceleration Mystery
The pole’s movement surged from 15 km per year to 55 km in the early 2000s, baffling experts. It has slowed recently but remains unpredictable, says the British Geological Survey.
Radiation Threat
A disrupted magnetic field could leave Earth vulnerable to harmful solar radiation, jeopardizing technology and human safety.
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Reversal Risk
Scientists fear a full pole reversal, where North and South poles flip, could disrupt navigation systems, GPS, and the planet’s magnetic shield.
Global Model
The World Magnetic Model, critical for navigation in smartphones, submarines, and GPS, depends on pole stability. The current shift threatens its accuracy, impacting global systems.
Solar Storms
High-energy solar particles interacting with Earth’s magnetosphere may be influencing pole movement, complicating predictions.
Historical Flips
Earth’s magnetic poles have reversed nearly 200 times in 100 million years. Each reversal is linked to disruptions in the magnetic shield, with unknown effects on modern technology.
Uncertain Future
William Brown of the BGS warns that the molten iron core is too chaotic to predict. Understanding this shift may unlock insights into Earth's protective magnetic shield.