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Solar Storms Pose Growing Threat to Global Technology Infrastructure

Examining solar storms’ potential impact on modern technology and society

From Hacker News Original Article Hacker News Discussion

The article explores the intense activity of the sun, focusing on solar flares and coronal mass ejections, and their potential to disrupt modern technology and infrastructure on Earth. It highlights the work of forecasters monitoring space weather and the risks posed by extreme solar events like the historic Carrington Event.

Why it matters: Solar storms can trigger geomagnetic storms that disrupt power grids, satellites, GPS, and communications worldwide.

The big picture: Our reliance on interconnected technology makes society increasingly vulnerable to rare but devastating space weather events.

The stakes: A Carrington-class storm could cause widespread blackouts, economic losses in the trillions, and prolonged disruption to daily life and critical services.

Commenters say: Readers appreciate the detailed solar imagery and scientific insights while reflecting on the awe-inspiring, yet precarious, relationship between Earth and the sun.