A major change is happening with the Earth’s magnetic field over the South Atlantic. This area, known as the South Atlantic Anomaly, has puzzled scientists for over a century and has expanded significantly in recent years. Recent data from the European Space Agency’s Swarm satellites shows that this weak magnetic spot has grown by an area roughly the size of half of continental Europe over the past eleven years.
An international team examined this data to understand the implications for navigation and space weather tracking. By learning more about the magnetic field, they aim to enhance existing models that help us navigate and manage satellites.
The cause of this anomaly is a large, swirling mass of molten iron located about 1,800 miles beneath the Earth’s surface. But this is just one piece of the puzzle. Researchers are still investigating other factors that might contribute to this phenomenon. According to Chris Finlay, a professor of geomagnetism at the Technical University of Denmark, the anomaly acts differently in various regions. “The South Atlantic Anomaly is not just a single block,” he noted. For instance, changes are more intense as it approaches Africa compared to its impact near South America.
Unusual behaviors are also observed in the magnetic field in other areas. For example, while the field weakens over the South Atlantic, it has been strengthening over Siberia and weakening over Canada. This could connect to the northern magnetic pole moving toward Siberia in recent years.
Understanding the magnetic field is complex. “It’s not just a simple dipole like a bar magnet,” Finlay explained. Thanks to satellites like Swarm, scientists can map these changes and gain better insights into our planet’s dynamics.
The current research not only sheds light on the Earth’s magnetic activity but also raises questions about its ongoing changes. As the ESA plans to extend the Swarm mission beyond 2030, we can expect continued exploration of these fascinating trends.
For a deeper look into similar research, you can check out the European Space Agency’s findings.
