| The Sun is the source of the light and heat that
enables life to survive on Earth. It is also the source of the 'solar wind', that travels
at hundreds of kilometres per second, containing high energy particles and plasma.
Fortunately the Earth is surrounded by an atmosphere and radiation belts that, in
conjunction with the Earth's strong magnetic field, shield us from the these harmful
particles.
Visually we can see the interaction of the solar wind with the
Earth's magnetosphere as auroras at the north and south poles. Electrically we observe
disruption to power lines and communication when the Earth's magnetic field is shaken by
the solar wind
Solar storms, increased output of plasma and high energy
particles such as X-rays, can cause extreme disruption to satellites as electrical charges
can develop to the point of discharge. Communications via ionospheric reflection is
disrupted during large solar storms as the various ionospheric layers absorb the increased
radiation levels.
The following links provide excellent information resources
relating to the Sun's interaction to man's environment, Earth. |
