Space weather refers to how solar activity affects Earth’s magnetic environment, and it can have a range of impacts on our technology and infrastructure—everything from power grids and communication systems to GPS navigation and satellite operations. That’s why NASA researchers have come up with an innovative computer model called the Deep Learning Geomagnetic Perturbation (DAGGER) model. This model cleverly combines artificial intelligence (AI) with satellite data to predict geomagnetic disturbances and give us a heads-up about potential solar storms.
Solar Wind and the Peak of the Sun’s Activity Cycle
The solar wind is a constant flow of charged particles, or plasma, that streams out from the Sun. This solar wind, along with various other solar activities, has an impact on the Earth’s magnetosphere and can trigger geomagnetic disturbances. When the Sun reaches the peak of its 11-year activity cycle, known as the solar maximum, we see an uptick in solar wind and other space weather events, which can pose serious risks to our modern technology.
DAGGER Model – An Overview
Developed by a talented group of NASA researchers under the guidance of Vishal Upendran, the DAGGER model employs AI to scrutinize data gathered from spacecraft observations of the solar wind. It offers a crucial 30-minute warning for any solar storm that might impact Earth, giving us just enough time to safeguard essential systems. The model’s capabilities were tested using data from geomagnetic storms that occurred in August 2011 and March 2015.
The Disruptive Effects of Geomagnetic Storms
Geomagnetic storms can have mild to severe effects on the Earth’s magnetosphere, and consequently, on modern technology. As technology is increasingly used in our everyday lives, the effects of these storms can become even more disruptive. Solar storms can lead to power outages, damage to satellites and communication systems, and even endanger the lives of astronauts on space missions.
Preventing Devastation with Rapid and Accurate Predictions
Rapid and accurate predictions of geomagnetic disturbances using the DAGGER model can help minimize or even prevent the devastation caused by solar storms. One day, solar storm sirens may sound an alarm at power plants and satellite control centers all over the world, warning of an impending storm and giving critical systems enough time to prepare.