The magnetic north pole’s position is officially changing due to an updated version of the World Magnetic Model. Released on December 17, this new prediction shows how the magnetic north pole will shift over the next five years.
Earth’s magnetic field is generated in its outer core, where molten iron moves and produces an electric current, leading to a self-sustaining process called the geodynamo. This field has continually regenerated itself for billions of years but would decay away if not sustained by fluid motions.
The World Magnetic Model combines data from satellites and ground-based observatories to predict the magnetic field at each point on Earth. It’s essential for satellite and aircraft navigation, as well as smartphone users’ orientation using services like Google Maps.
A new version is released every five years to account for changes in the magnetic field from the outer core’s motion. The latest update is necessary to keep navigational systems functioning and make better predictions about Earth’s magnetic field.
The 2025 update won’t result in noticeable changes, but users will benefit from the continued updates, which ensure that navigation remains accurate. For most people, the accuracy of the World Magnetic Model is more than they need anyway.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/planet-earth/the-position-of-the-magnetic-north-pole-is-officially-changing-why