We could lose electricity and satellites due to solar flares

In summary, there are concerns that humanity may face trouble due to solar flares and the possibility of the Earth being hit by a large solar flare within the next 100 years. The estimated costs of repair in the US could be up to 2.5 trillion dollars. This threat from solar flares is not new, but it is important to consider the potential impact of a significant solar flare on Earth.
  • #1
ianz1234
Hello, all!
I found several sources which say that humanity could be in trouble because of solar flares! Scientists said that the Earth could be hit by solar flare within the next 100 years!
Current costs of repair in the US could be up to 2.5 trillion dollars!
It seems like Sun will punish the Earth
Source: Solar flare threats
 
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  • #2
ianz1234 said:
Hello, all!
I found several sources which say that humanity could be in trouble because of solar flares! Scientists said that the Earth could be hit by solar flare within the next 100 years!
Current costs of repair in the US could be up to 2.5 trillion dollars!
It seems like Sun will punish the Earth
Source: Solar flare threats
Yes. So? This has been known for quite a while.

Also, "the Earth could be hit by solar flare within the next 100 years!" is a bit naive. We are often hit by solar flares. What matters is how big it is. You are talking about a BIG solar flare, which is relatively infrequent.
 
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  • #3
ianz1234 said:
Hello, all!
I found several sources which say that humanity could be in trouble because of solar flares! Scientists said that the Earth could be hit by solar flare within the next 100 years!
Current costs of repair in the US could be up to 2.5 trillion dollars!
It seems like Sun will punish the Earth
Source: Solar flare threats

you would do well to read the article more carefully, and if you are really going to quote from it,
then you should do that accurately and not in your own words which were incorrect :wink:

@phinds has given you a good response :smile:

Dave
 
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1. What are solar flares?

Solar flares are sudden, intense bursts of radiation that occur on the surface of the sun. They are often associated with sunspots and can release energy equivalent to millions of hydrogen bombs exploding at the same time.

2. How can solar flares affect electricity and satellites?

Solar flares can cause disruptions in the Earth's magnetic field, which in turn can induce electric currents in power lines, leading to power outages. They can also interfere with satellite communications and navigation systems, potentially causing disruptions in GPS and other technologies.

3. How likely is it for us to lose electricity and satellites due to solar flares?

While solar flares are a natural occurrence and happen frequently, significant disruptions to electricity and satellite systems are relatively rare. However, as our reliance on technology increases, the potential impact of solar flares becomes a growing concern.

4. Is there any way to protect against the effects of solar flares?

Power grids and satellites can be shielded to some extent from the effects of solar flares. Additionally, early warning systems can help prepare for potential disruptions, and contingency plans can be put in place to minimize the impact on critical infrastructure.

5. Can solar flares pose a danger to human health?

Solar flares do not directly impact human health. However, they can indirectly affect us by disrupting technology we rely on, such as electricity and communication systems. Additionally, astronauts in space are at a higher risk of exposure to radiation during solar flares and may need to take precautions to minimize their exposure.

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