Space Weather

Refers to conditions on the Sun, in the solar wind, and in Earth’s space (magnetic field, ionosphere, and thermosphere) that can influence space- and ground-based technological systems and endanger humans working in space. Adverse conditions in the space environment can disrupt satellite operations, communications, navigation, and electric power distribution grids.

The conditions and processes occurring in space which have the potential to affect the near Earth environment. Space Weather processes can include changes in the interplanetary magnetic field, coronal mass ejections from the Sun, and disturbances in Earth's magnetic field. The effects of space weather can range from damage to satellites to disruption of power grids on Earth.