Solar Flares are Increasing. Can this affect human health?
Some say cardiovascular effects such as increase in heart rate, palpitation, heart disease, also headache and mental health problems may increase.
What Are Solar Flares?
Solar flares are sudden, intense bursts of radiation coming from the release of magnetic energy associated with sunspots. These flares are the most powerful explosive events in our solar system, and they can last from minutes to hours. Solar flares emit energy across the electromagnetic spectrum, from radio waves to gamma rays.
Are Solar Flares Increasing in Incidence?
Solar activity, including the occurrence of solar flares, follows an approximately 11-year cycle known as the solar cycle. During the solar maximum, which is the peak of the cycle, the Sun’s magnetic field is the most active, resulting in an increased number of sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections (CMEs). The solar minimum, in contrast, is a period of relatively low solar activity.
The current solar cycle, Cycle 25, began in December 2019, and predictions suggest that it will reach its maximum around 2025. Solar flares are expected to become more frequent as we approach the solar maximum.
Radiation Exposure:
Astronauts: Solar flares can increase radiation levels in space, posing a risk to astronauts outside the Earth’s protective atmosphere and magnetic field. This is why space missions closely monitor solar activity.
Aviation: High-altitude flights, particularly over polar regions, can experience increased radiation levels during strong solar flares. This can slightly increase the radiation dose for passengers and crew.
Geomagnetic Storms:
Solar flares can cause geomagnetic storms when charged particles interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. These storms can disrupt power grids, communications, and navigation systems, indirectly affecting human safety and daily activities.
Psychological and Biological Effects:
Some studies suggest that geomagnetic storms and increased solar activity may have subtle effects on human health, such as increased incidence of headaches, mood changes, and sleep disturbances. However, these effects are still not well understood and require further research.
Protective Measures
Monitoring and Forecasting: Agencies like NASA and NOAA monitor solar activity and provide forecasts to help mitigate the impacts of solar flares. This is crucial for protecting satellites, power grids, and communication networks.
