Massive plasma storms, invisible to most, are swirling over Earth’s polar regions, injecting energy into the upper atmosphere and interfering with GPS signals. These space hurricanes resemble traditional hurricanes but occur in the realm of charged particles high above our planet.
Researchers have confirmed that massive “space hurricanes” are swirling over Earth’s polar regions, injecting vast amounts of energy into the upper atmosphere and even interfering with GPS signals.
A recent study analyzing a space hurricane from 2014 revealed that the energy released during such an event is comparable to that of a magnetic storm, powerful enough to disturb the magnetic field at high latitudes.
The invisible impact on navigation systems can reach technology on the ground, as these storms create phase scintillation in signals from Global Navigation Satellite Systems, including GPS. This reduces accuracy and reliability, posing potential challenges for aviation, shipping, and precise geolocation.
These storms typically occur during polar regions’ months of continuous daylight, triggering auroral activity that is difficult to observe. They are most likely to form above a magnetic latitude of 80° in the hemisphere experiencing polar daylight, and their occurrence appears to be influenced by the solar cycle, Earth’s magnetic field, and seasonal changes.
The research highlights just how much remains unknown about space weather and its impact on our planet’s upper atmosphere. By studying these recurring plasma storms, scientists are gaining valuable insights into the complex relationship between our planet and the Sun.
Source: https://dailygalaxy.com/2025/08/space-hurricanes-throw-gps-into-chaos