Surprising Science — April 15, 2010

Solar Power

Using instruments in space and on the ground, Scientists have developed the most complete picture yet of how large solar eruptions affect the Earth.

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Using instruments in space and on the ground, Scientists have developed the most complete picture yet of how large solar eruptions affect the Earth. These eruptions, known as Coronal mass ejections (CMEs), can lead to displays of the northern and southern lights on Earth, but also can cause power outages on the ground, interference with communications and damage to Earth-orbiting satellites, as well as being a possible health risk to space-walking astronauts.

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

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