theblackalchemist Posted December 17, 2008 Report Share Posted December 17, 2008 Scientists find hole in Earth LOS ANGELES: Recent satellite observations have revealed the largest breach yet seen in the magnetic field that protects Earth from most of thesun's violent blasts, researchers have reported. The discovery was made last summer by Themis, a fleet of five small NASA satellites. Scientists have long known that the Earth's magnetic field, which guards against severe space weather, is similar to a drafty old house that sometimes lets in violent eruptions of charged particles from the sun. Such a breach can cause brilliant auroras or disrupt satellite and ground communications. Observations from Themis show the Earth's magnetic field occasionally develops two cracks, allowing solar wind - a stream of charged particles spewing from the sun at 1 million mph (1.6 million kph) - to penetrate the Earth's upper atmosphere. Scientists find hole in Earth-Health/Sci-The Times of India Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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