'The sky is breaking': Earth's magnetic field splitting could swallow satellites

Produced by: Mohsin Shaikh

Magnetic Mystery

A strange anomaly weakens Earth's magnetic field between South America and Africa, puzzling scientists and raising concerns.

Anomaly Danger

Satellites and spacecraft face increased exposure to solar particles in the anomaly, risking glitches and data loss.

Space Dent

NASA likens the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA) to a "dent" in Earth's magnetic field, disrupting systems in orbit.

Core Disturbance

The swirling molten iron inside Earth's core, along with dense rock structures, is linked to the anomaly's emergence.

Splitting Signs

NASA researchers observed that the anomaly appears to be dividing into two distinct regions of weakened intensity.

Ancient Event

A 2020 study suggests the anomaly may have persisted for 11 million years, not a recent or isolated occurrence.

Dynamic Drift

Tracking reveals the anomaly slowly shifts over time, creating evolving challenges for spacecraft operators.

Aurora Impact

A recent study connects the SAA to changes in auroras, adding a visual dimension to its mysterious influence.

Future Focus

Continued observations and missions are essential to model and predict the anomaly's evolving behavior.