Space Environment and Space Weather

Solar Output

The sun is the source of all space weather. Solar activity, like sunspots and flares, can cause problems for satellites and astronauts in space.

Solar activity can damage satellites and impair their function, which could lead to a loss of data or even a complete outage.

Flares and sunspots produce more energy than usual, which can knock out orbiting instruments or threaten human safety if it enters Earth's atmosphere.

Monitoring solar activity allows scientists to predict when these events will happen and plan for necessary safety precautions.

The Upper Atmosphere

The upper atmosphere (thermosphere and ionosphere) is where most of the space weather happens. This is because the upper atmosphere is where the Earth's magnetic field interacts with the solar wind. This interaction can cause auroras, charged particles to be trapped in the radiation belts, and other phenomenon.

Understanding space weather is important for Space Industry Professionals in order to better protect astronauts and equipment from its effects.

Space weather can also impact communications and navigation systems, as well as power grids on Earth. Being aware of space weather conditions can help Space Industry Professionals plan missions and avoid potential hazards.

Space weather can affect multiple areas of our lives, so it’s important for everyone to be aware of its effects and take appropriate precautions when necessary. By staying informed about space weather conditions, we can help keep our planet safe while we explore beyond our own planet!