Solar Storms Threaten Satellites and Power Grids

Solar storms in 2023 have caused the thermosphere to shift upwards and heat up, increasing the risk for satellites in low Earth orbit. The heated-up air will be more prone to drag and can push around the satellites, resulting in collisions and damage to instruments. NASA's TIMED satellite has recorded the thermosphere to be at a 20-year high. With the peak of the Solar Cycle approaching, more solar storms are expected, which can further worsen the condition for Earth's low-orbit satellites.