Geomagnetic Storms Bring Satellites Down Faster

When the Sun rages, it affects Earth's atmosphere. This image shows a powerful coronal mass ejection from the Sun. When these and other types of energetic solar weather strike Earth, they can puff our atmosphere up, creating more drag for satellites in Low-Earth Orbit. Image Credit: NASA/Solar Dynamics Observatory

When the Sun rages and storms in Earth's direction, it changes our planet's atmosphere. The atmosphere puffs up, meaning satellites in Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) meet more resistance. This resistance creates orbital decay, dragging satellites to lower altitudes. One researcher says we can change the design of satellites to decrease their susceptibility.

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