The sun periodically releases massive bursts of energy called coronal mass ejections (CMEs). These CMEs can travel through space and impact Earth's magnetic field, generating powerful electrical currents that can damage power grids, satellites, and other electronic infrastructure.
A particularly strong CME, known as a solar superstorm, could have a devastating impact on the internet. The intense electromagnetic fields generated by a superstorm could overwhelm the protective shielding of internet cables and equipment, causing widespread outages.
“The internet has come of age during a time when the sun has been relatively quiet,” said Professor Peter Becker of George Mason University. “Now it’s entering a more active time, and it’s the first time in human history that there’s been an intersection of increased solar activity with our dependence on the internet and our global economic dependence on the internet.”
A recent study by Becker and his colleagues found that a solar superstorm could cause widespread damage to internet infrastructure, including:
- Fiber optic cables
- Subsea cables
- Satellite communication systems
- Internet exchanges
- Data centers
The study also found that the repair of this damage could take weeks or even months, as replacement parts and equipment would need to be shipped from around the world.
“The economic impact of a solar superstorm could be staggering,” Becker said. “The United States could lose up to $20 billion per day in economic activity, and the global economy could lose trillions of dollars.”
In addition to its economic impact, a solar superstorm could also have a significant impact on public safety and national security. The disruption of the internet could make it difficult for emergency services to communicate and coordinate their response to a disaster. It could also make it easier for cybercriminals to carry out attacks.
Scientists are working to develop better early warning systems for solar superstorms, so that governments and businesses can take steps to protect their infrastructure. However, there is no guarantee that these systems will be able to provide adequate warning time.
In the meantime, it is important for individuals and businesses to take steps to prepare for the possibility of a solar superstorm. This could include:
- Backing up important data
- Having a plan for how to communicate in the event of an internet outage
- Investing in generators and other backup power sources
By taking these steps, we can help to mitigate the impact of a solar superstorm and ensure that we are able to recover as quickly as possible.
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