Notes of concern: ‘chorus waves’ found by China-led study sound alarms for space travel
Peculiar electromagnetic bursts known as "chorus waves" have been detected by a China-led team of scientists at a distance of 165,000 km from Earth, raising concerns about risks to spacecraft and astronauts. This marks the first time such waves have been observed so far from our planet, three times the distance of previous detections. Using data from NASA's Magnetospheric Multiscale Mission, the research revealed that these waves were generated in Earth's stretched magnetic field lines, where they were repeatedly struck by charged particles from space, producing sounds akin to birds chirping.
These findings challenge existing theories about the generation and propagation of chorus waves, as noted by Cao Jinbin, a co-author from Beihang University. Richard Horne of the British Antarctic Survey highlighted the importance of this discovery for understanding space weather and its potential threats. Chorus waves can accelerate electrons to high energies, creating "killer electrons" that have historically damaged satellites, costing significant sums. This research not only expands our understanding of deep space radiation but also emphasizes the need for improved prediction and protection measures for space technology.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
Peculiar electromagnetic bursts known as "chorus waves" have been detected by a China-led team of scientists at a distance of 165,000 km from Earth, raising concerns about risks to spacecraft and astronauts. This marks the first time such waves have been observed so far from our planet, three times the distance of previous detections. Using data from NASA's Magnetospheric Multiscale Mission, the research revealed that these waves were generated in Earth's stretched magnetic field lines, where they were repeatedly struck by charged particles from space, producing sounds akin to birds chirping.
These findings challenge existing theories about the generation and propagation of chorus waves, as noted by Cao Jinbin, a co-author from Beihang University. Richard Horne of the British Antarctic Survey highlighted the importance of this discovery for understanding space weather and its potential threats. Chorus waves can accelerate electrons to high energies, creating "killer electrons" that have historically damaged satellites, costing significant sums. This research not only expands our understanding of deep space radiation but also emphasizes the need for improved prediction and protection measures for space technology.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
