The Threat of Extreme Solar Storms
Extreme solar storms pose a significant risk to our modern technological infrastructure. While events like the 1859 Carrington Event caused disruptions to telegraph systems, a similar storm today could have far more severe consequences, potentially damaging satellites and bringing down global communication networks and power grids. . For instance, one assessment concluded that it could leave half of the US without power within 90 seconds, without coal after 30 days and would take the country a decade to recover.
Recent research has revealed that even more powerful solar storms have occurred in Earth’s past. By analyzing radiocarbon levels in tree rings, scientists have identified several extreme events, including ones in AD774, AD993, 660BC, 5259BC, and 7176BC. The most extreme detected storm occurred around 14,370 years ago.
Potential Impacts and Preparedness
An extreme solar storm could:
- Instantly disable most satellites
- Cause widespread power grid failures
- Disrupt global communications
To prepare for such an event, experts recommend:
- Developing better forecasting capabilities
- Hardening critical infrastructure against electromagnetic pulses
- Creating backup systems for essential services
Building a Personal Offline Internet Backup
As a hedge against potential solar-induced disruptions, individuals and organizations could consider building an offline Internet backup, the modern equivalent of the old personal book library.
- Local Network: Create a small-scale local network using routers, switches, and servers that can operate independently of the global Internet.
- Content Mirroring: Download and regularly update essential websites, databases, and resources to local storage.
- Electromagnetic Shielding: Store equipment in Faraday cages or other shielded enclosures to protect against electromagnetic pulses.
- Alternative Power Sources: Ensure the system can run on solar power, batteries, or other off-grid energy sources.
- Regular Testing: Conduct periodic drills to ensure the system functions as intended and staff know how to activate and use it.
- Distributed Backups: Create multiple, geographically dispersed backups to increase resilience.
By implementing such measures, communities could maintain access to critical information and communication capabilities even in the event of a severe solar storm that disables global networks.