(NASA) Magnetic storms shake-up Earth’s magnetic field and they produce huge amounts of power – a million mega-watts! That’s enough to power the United States for a couple of days. Most of this energy and radiation flows out into space, but we do see effects near Earth’s surface. Besides causing beautiful auroras, these storms can disrupt satellite broadcasts and even damage electrical power systems. Astronauts need to take precautions too. (NASA) Imagine the future.Someday you may help forecast space weather for our nation and the other spacefaring nations of the world. Or someday you or your children may be on a 2-year voyage of discovery to Mars where understanding our Sun & space weather will be key to your survival and to your mission’s success.