Storms Shock the Magnetosphere

Magnetic storms can occur when a CME hits Earth’s magnetosphere. Magnetic storms . . .

• Generate million-amp electric currents that distort the magnetosphere and flow down into our upper atmosphere Most of the high-energy, electrically charged particles in Earth’s magnetosphere are trapped in two doughnut-shaped belts surrounding Earth: the Van Allen radiation belts. These belts of dangerous particles were the first major discovery of the Space Age.
• Disturb the Van Allen radiation belts, which become filled with "killer electrons" that can pierce the skin of a satellite and the cells of an astronaut
• Cause spectacular, widespread auroras, even at low latitudes
• Damage power systems on Earth and interfere with broadcasting