Produced by: Tarun Mishra
Scientists anticipate heightened solar activity in the coming years, with the Sun reaching its peak during the Solar Maximum cycle by 2025. NASA has reportedly got this information regarding the solar storm via its Parker Solar probe.
Solar Maximum marks a period of intense solar activity, occurring approximately midway through the solar cycle every 11 years, characterized by heightened magnetic field dynamics.
Scientists have raised concerns about the potential disruption to global communication infrastructure, including the internet, due to increased solar storms and flares during the Solar Maximum phase.
Past events like the Carrington Event of 1859 and the solar storm of 1989 highlighted the potential for significant disruption to communication networks and power grids, emphasizing the need for preparedness.
Despite heightened interest, NASA is yet to comment on the potential for a global internet outage caused by solar storms, leaving uncertainties regarding the extent of possible impacts.
Concerns arise over the vulnerability of Earth's interconnected infrastructure, with experts warning of potential damage to undersea communication cables and long-distance connectivity.
Reports suggest that a severe solar storm leading to a global internet outage could result in significant economic losses, with estimates surpassing $11 billion in a single day for the US alone.
Scientists and researchers advocate for proactive measures to mitigate the potential impact of a solar maximum-induced internet outage, emphasizing the importance of disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience.