A giant region of lower magnetic intensity, known as the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA), has been puzzling scientists for years. This vast phenomenon, stretching between South America and southwest Africa, is causing concern among space agencies due to its impact on satellite technology.
The SAA acts like a “dent” or “pothole in space,” weakening Earth’s magnetic field strength, which can lead to malfunctions in satellites and spacecraft. Orbital vehicles passing through the anomaly zone risk short-circuiting and data loss. To mitigate this risk, NASA is monitoring the anomaly closely.
Researchers believe the SAA is caused by a combination of factors, including a swirling ocean of molten iron inside Earth’s outer core, which generates electrical currents that create our magnetic field. The tilt of the planet’s magnetic axis also plays a role in weakening the field.
In 2016, a study revealed the SAA slowly drifts around the globe, while a 2021 study confirmed this movement using CubeSats. More recent research suggests the phenomenon is not a new appearance but rather a recurrent magnetic event that has affected Earth since at least 11 million years ago.
NASA’s continued monitoring of the SAA provides valuable insights into a complex and difficult-to-understand phenomenon. The agency’s resources and research groups are uniquely positioned to study this anomaly, which holds great interest for scientists seeking to understand its implications.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/nasa-watching-huge-growing-anomaly-130144721.html