Coronal Mass Ejection (CME)

In News

A recent study has revealed that even a subtle Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) from the Sun can trigger intense geomagnetic storms on Earth, highlighting the need for improved space weather monitoring and disaster preparedness.

What is a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME)?

1A CME is a large-scale expulsion of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun’s corona.

2It carries billions of tons of solar material into space at speeds ranging from 250 km/s to 3000 km/s.

3Often linked with solar flares and active sunspot regions.

How CMEs Affect Earth

1Disturb the Earth’s magnetosphere, causing geomagnetic storms.

2Potential impacts include:

oSatellite malfunctions or degradation

oDisruption of power grids and transformers

oInterference with navigation systems (GPS)

oRadio communication blackouts

oEnhanced auroral activity near polar regions

Scientific Significance

1Even small-scale CMEs can have outsized effects depending on the orientation of their magnetic fields.

2Understanding CME dynamics helps in:

oPredicting space weather events

oMitigating technological and infrastructural risks

Supporting satellite operations, aviation, and power grid resilience