A recent study by researchers at the University of Genoa suggests that artificial intelligence (AI) can predict powerful solar storms months before they impact Earth. The team used historical solar data to train an AI model, which identified patterns that precede coronal mass ejections (CMEs).
This early warning system has significant benefits over traditional methods, which rely on human analysis of solar images and data, often providing less accurate and timely forecasts. According to the study, CME travel times can be predicted with precision, allowing for better forecasting of space weather events.
Solar coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are massive expulsions of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun’s corona. They can affect power grids, communication systems, GPS navigation, air travel, and satellites. A recent geomagnetic storm caused disruptions to communication and GPS systems, with ISRO stating it was the most intense since 2003.
Solar flares follow a pattern with peaks and lows occurring every 11 years. The current solar cycle, Solar Cycle 25, is expected to reach a maximum around July 2025. Scientists are unsure why the Sun has been more active than anticipated, despite having more data at their disposal.
Source: https://www.ndtv.com/science/ai-could-have-predicted-may-2024-solar-storms-study-claims-7618613