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Space Weather Prediction Center

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Monday, March 18, 2024 19:51:04

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NOAA Scales mini

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Space Weather Conditions
24-Hour Observed Maximums
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Latest Observed
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R1-R2 --
R3-R5 --
S1 or greater --
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Current Space Weather Conditions
R1 (Minor) Radio Blackout Impacts
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HF Radio: Weak or minor degradation of HF radio communication on sunlit side, occasional loss of radio contact.
Navigation: Low-frequency navigation signals degraded for brief intervals.
More about the NOAA Space Weather Scales

Space Weather Impacts

Phenomena and their affects between the Sun and Earth.

About Space Weather Impacts

Different types of space weather can affect different technologies at Earth. Solar flares can produce strong x-rays that degrade or block high-frequency radio waves used for radio communication during events known as Radio Blackout Storms. Solar Energetic Particles (energetic protons) can penetrate satellite electronics and cause electrical failure. These energetic particles also block radio communications at high latitudes in during Solar Radiation Storms.


Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) can cause Geomagnetic Storms at Earth and induce extra currents in the ground that can degrade power grid operations.


Geomagnetic storms can also modify the signal from radio navigation systems (GPS and GNSS) causing degraded accuracy. Geomagnetic storms also produce the aurora. Space weather will impact people who depend on these technologies. A description of some of the space weather phenomena can be found at Space Weather Phenomena. Space Weather Phenomena.

Electric Power Transmission

The electric power grid, and consequently the power to your home and business, can be disrupted by space weather.

HF Radio Communications

Space weather impacts radio communication in a number of ways.

Satellite Communication Messages
Satellite Communications

Satellite communication refers to any communication link that involves the use of an artificial satellite in its propagation path.

Satellite Drag
Satellite Drag

Drag is a force exerted on an object moving through a fluid, and it is oriented in the direction of relative fluid flow.

Space Weather and GPS Systems

The use of single and dual frequency radio navigation systems, like GPS, has grown dramatically in the last decade.

Space Weather Impacts On Climate

All weather on Earth, from the surface of the planet out into space, begins with the Sun.