Solar Storms, Coronal Mass Ejections, and Solar Shields

Abstract

If one were to survey the general public about serious concerns for the future, what would they say? Many of the answers would be predictable. Pandemics, climate change, and weapons of mass destruction would very likely head the list. Others with a broader perspective might mention asteroids and comets, genetic engineering, and pollution. Few would raise the issue of solar storms and coronal mass ejections (CMEs).

By funneling charged particles into Earth’s magnetic field, CMEs can trigger geomagnetic storms that ignite dazzling auroral displays. But those storms can also induce dangerous electrical currents in long-distance power lines. The currents last only a few minutes, but they can take out electrical grids by destroying high-voltage transformers—particularly at high latitudes, where Earth’s magnetic field lines converge as they arc toward the surface.

–William Murtagh

A Carrington-level, extreme geomagnetic storm is almost inevitable in the future. While the probability of an extreme storm occurring is relatively low at any given time, it is almost inevitable that one will occur eventually. Historical auroral records suggest a return period of 50 years for Quebec-level storms and 150 years for very extreme storms, such as the Carrington Event that occurred 154 years ago.

Lloyds of London and Atmospheric and Environmental Research Study, “Solar Storm Risk to the North American Electric Grid,” 2013