interesting South Atlantic Magnetic Anomaly (AMAS) is deepening and expanding, causing growing concern in the scientific community. This phenomenon, which Affects Brazil and the region of the South AtlanticThe Earth’s magnetic field is significantly weaker than in other parts of the planet, resulting in serious effects on navigation systems.
The exact cause of the South Atlantic Magnetic Anomaly is still unknown, but the strength of the magnetic field has dropped to one-third of the global average.
As per the 2023 Annual Report of World Magnetic Model ,WMM), prepared by the centers National Center for Environmental Information ,NCEI), From NOAAand the British Geological Survey (BGS, The intensity of the magnetic field decreased in 2023 on the AMAS surface. In addition, The center of the anomaly moved about 20 km westward. “The affected area, determined by the area within the 25,000 NT contour, has increased by approximately 7% since 2020,” the report highlights.
Impact on Brazil and global technology
Although this phenomenon does not pose a direct risk to human health or daily activities on land, it can cause Damage to satellites and affect the propagation of radio waves,
according to the report, “The AMAS is deepening and moving westThere is a direct impact on the radiation that can reach the Earth, affecting satellites and radio propagation.
According to the website The Epoch Times, This anomaly directly affects South America, especially BrazilWhere the low intensity of the magnetic field exposes satellites and navigation systems to high levels of cosmic radiation.
The fragility of the magnetic field in this region can cause Failures in electronic components and on-board systems, negatively affecting critical communications and environmental monitoring technologies. This can lead to frequent malfunctions and even equipment shutdown. Additionally, the anomaly affects the accuracy of navigation systems that rely on accurate magnetic readings, such as compasses.
Reliable WMM model for estimating Earth’s magnetic field
Hey WMM is a spherical harmonic model of the magnetic field The Earth Observation System, developed in collaboration between NCEI and BGS, is updated every five years to reflect changes in the magnetic field.
The centre of the magnetic anomaly has moved about 20 km westwards.
The report states, “The accuracy of WMM2020 has been confirmed up to 2024, with total errors well below the maximum allowed by US military specifications.” This indicates that the model remains a Reliable tool for navigation and attitude and heading referenceDespite the variations observed in the AMAs.
The data used to monitor and predict changes in the magnetic field is collected by a constellation of satellites cluster The European Space Agency (ESA). These data are fundamental for understanding the dynamics of AMAs and developing strategies to mitigate its negative impacts.
News Reference:
NCEI.”Geomagnetic Field Status – December 2023“. 2023.
