Produced by: Mohsin Shaikh
Earth’s magnetic north pole has been shifting rapidly, driven by changes in its outer core’s fluid motions.
Molten iron in Earth’s outer core generates the magnetic field, sustaining the geodynamo process for billions of years.
The magnetic north pole’s complex movements, now toward Siberia, have accelerated in recent years.
The World Magnetic Model predicts shifts in Earth's magnetic field using data from satellites like ESA’s Swarm mission.
Geophysicist William Brown explained how smartphones use magnetometers and the World Magnetic Model for precise orientation.
Credit: British Geological Survey
Updates occur every five years to refine predictions, as magnetic field changes are chaotic and not fully predictable.
In 2019, an off-cycle update was needed due to faster-than-usual outer core flow, shifting the magnetic north pole.
Despite changes, the 2025 update ensures smooth functionality of GPS and navigation systems for everyday users.
Ongoing observations of the magnetic field provide insights into Earth’s inner dynamics, revealing the planet’s evolving behavior.