How a solar superstorm could destroy all satellites – and why we should be concerned about it

Can you imagine a day without the internet, mobile signal, and GPS? Technology has become so taken for granted that it’s hard to envision life without it. But there’s a natural phenomenon that could take all of this away – and in just a few minutes. We’re talking about a solar superstorm, which could be powerful enough to wipe out nearly all of our satellites.

What exactly is a solar superstorm?

Let’s explain simply: our Sun is not just a gigantic hot ball shining in the sky – it’s also a very active star. Every now and then, a massive explosion of energy occurs on it, called a coronal mass ejection (or CME for short).

Such an explosion sends a huge amount of charged particles into space. If we’re unlucky and the Earth catches this explosion, a geomagnetic storm occurs. Most of these storms are mild – perhaps a signal disruption or an interesting northern light. But sometimes something much worse happens: a solar superstorm.

A historical example: the Carrington event

The strongest known solar storm occurred in 1859. We call it the Carrington event, named after the astronomer who observed it. At that time, there were no satellites or the internet, but telegraph devices literally caught fire. Imagine what would happen today…

What could happen to our satellites?

According to new simulations by scientists, the next solar superstorm could destroy the vast majority of satellites orbiting Earth. This is not just science fiction – it’s a real threat that could impact daily life worldwide.

Why are satellites so vulnerable?

Electromagnetic pulse (EMP): A strong explosion can overheat electrical circuits in satellites.
Charged particles: These can damage or even destroy sensitive components like solar panels, navigation systems, and computer modules.
Atmospheric friction: The sudden heating of the Earth’s atmosphere during a superstorm increases air density, slowing down satellites in lower orbits and potentially pulling them back toward Earth.

This means we could lose the following in a matter of hours:

Internet connections (most international traffic goes through satellites)
GPS navigation (everything from Google Maps to food delivery apps)
TV signals and mobile networks
Weather forecasts (meteorological satellites would cease to function)
Maritime and aviation navigation

A nightmare for modern society

Now imagine that everything listed above is truly lost. No mobile signal, no internet, no navigation. Planes remain on the ground. Ships disappear from the maps. Financial transactions come to a halt, as most modern banking relies on satellite communication.

And that’s not all. Factories operating with automated systems could fail. Healthcare systems might face issues, as many data are stored in computer systems connected via satellite networks. A global chaos.

What would the impact of such a storm look like in practice?

Some experts say the consequences would be akin to a massive electronic “reset.” It would be like someone unplugging the entire system. And while some technologies might return in a few days or weeks, others could be lost forever.

Have we learned anything from the past?

Unfortunately, not enough. Solar activity is monitored – there are forecasts that can warn of a CME a few hours before the particles reach Earth. But these warning hours are often not enough to protect all systems.

The American agency NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) and other similar organizations around the world are working on improvements. They are developing more resilient satellites and system safeguards. But still, if a strong enough storm hits us, we are not fully prepared.

What can we do as a society?

Invest in protection: Build more durable satellites and systems that are resistant to electromagnetic disruptions.
Backup plans: Develop alternative communication pathways that are not solely dependent on space.
Public education: Most people have never heard of a solar superstorm – knowledge is the first step toward preparedness.

Companies and government agencies should also establish “emergency plans” for such events. Just as we have fire drills, we should have plans for what to do when technology goes dark.

Are we facing something like this in the future?

According to researchers, it’s only a matter of when – not if. The Sun has its natural cycle of activity, and after about 11 years of calm, a period of greater eruptions follows. And we are entering such a period right now.

Simulations suggest that we could experience another event comparable to Carrington’s in the coming decades – perhaps even stronger. If it catches us unprepared, the consequences could be catastrophic.

An interesting fact

Currently, there are over 5000 active satellites orbiting Earth, with even more planned. Private companies like SpaceX are launching entire “satellite mega-constellations,” such as Starlink, with thousands of devices. Each of these devices is vulnerable.

Conclusion: A space threat that is too overlooked

When we think about threats to humanity, we often think of earthquakes, volcanoes, even asteroids. But something far more likely – and just as destructive – is watching us from above every day. A solar superstorm is not a myth, but a serious natural hazard. We now have the opportunity to prepare for it.

But will we do it? That’s a question we all need to ask ourselves.

If you found this post interesting, share it with your friends – perhaps they, like you, have never thought that the Sun could cause a digital blackout for the whole world.

Let’s stay connected (while we still have signal 😊)