Solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are significant solar phenomena that can affect Earth’s technological systems. While Earth’s magnetic field and atmosphere shield the surface from harmful effects, these events can disturb the ionosphere, leading to disruptions in radio communications and increased atmospheric drag on satellites. CMEs, often associated with flares, carry substantial material into space, and upon interacting with Earth’s magnetosphere, can trigger geomagnetic storms. Such storms have the potential to damage satellites, especially those in geosynchronous orbits, and can induce high currents in power lines, occasionally causing widespread electrical outages, as seen in the 1989 Quebec incident. Additionally, geomagnetic storms enhance auroral displays, offering a visual spectacle. As our reliance on technology grows, understanding and mitigating the impacts of space weather become increasingly crucial.
