A significant Solar storm This occurred in May 2024, led to the formation of two temporary radiation belts around the earth, as confirmed by satellite data. The discovery was made when a sleeping satellite resumed operations after months of inactivity. The storm, which had been among the most intense geomagnetic disorders since 1989, resulted in generalized auroral screens and introduced high energy particles in the Earth Magtosphere. Although these temporary belts were documented earlier, scientists found that one of the newly applied belts exhibited unique properties, with a different composition from previous observations. One of the belts has already dissipated, but the other remains intact, presenting possible challenges for future space missions.
Temporary radiation belts detected after intense solar activity
According to to look for Published in the Journal of Geofysical Research: Space Physics, the satellite of the Colorado Internal Radiation Belt (CIRBE) identified the new radiation belts after reactivation in June 2024. Spacenave was silent due to a technical issue in April , missing the peak of the storm peak. Upon returning, data analysis revealed the existence of two additional belts between pre-existing van Allen radiation belts.
It was determined that although the first belt contained high energy electrons, consistent with the previous strains of radiation induced by the storm, the second belt displayed an unusual concentration of high energy protons. This presence of protons was linked to the extreme nature of the solar storm, which had released significant gusts of particles loaded in Earth’s magnetic field.
Prolonged useful life of the newly -formed belts
It is known that temporary radiation belts generated by solar storms persist for weeks before dispersion. However, according to the findings, the electron -dominated belt remained for three months, while the proton -rich belt is still present. David Sibeck, a Heliophysicist from NASA Goddard Space Flight CenterLike this, declared In an interview with Space.com, these particles can be trapped for a long time, creating a lasting impact on Earth’s internal radiation environment.
Proton belt resilience is attributed to its location in a more stable region of Earth’s magnetic field, where external disorders have less impact. On the other hand, a subsequent solar storm in June 2024 caused a reduction in the electron belt, with an additional weakening observed in August. Nevertheless, the proton belt remained largely affected.
Implications for Spatial Missions and Satellite Operations
The existence of these new radiation belts has raised concerns about the safety of satellites and manned space missions. Particles charged at high energy levels can pose risks to electronic components and human health in space. The spacecraft that passes through these regions, particularly those traveling to geostationary orbit or beyond, may require additional shielding to mitigate exposure to radiation.
As reported, the presence of these belts may require adjustments to launch plans for future missions. With prolonged radiation risks, space agencies may need to consider evolving space weather conditions before implanting satellites or sending astronauts beyond the orbit of the earth.
Despite the crucial discovery of the Cirbe satellite, the same solar activity This led to the identification of the new radiation belts also caused the eventual death of the spacecraft. Increased energy injected into the atmosphere resulted in greater drag, which led to the descent and disintegration of CIRBE in October 2024.
The impact of solar storms on Earth’s magnetosphere is still closely monitored, with scientists studying how these phenomena affect planetary and technological systems.