By Greg Bartlett
Today, the sun is shining brightly. It’s a nice change from the overcast skies and rainy weather we’ve been experiencing lately. And as useful as the rain is, the sun also has its own advantages, such as helping things grow. But the sun also has disadvantages, and more than just causing skin cancer. Have you ever wondered how the sun affects GPS satellites? After all, they’re up there in space with the sun. Does solar activity ever threaten them?
Satellite and Stratosphere
Severe solar activity can threaten life as we know it. Satellites injured by solar activity may disrupt communication, cell phone usage, power grids, weather satellites, and GPS tracking and navigation. The sun usually goes through a cycle about every 11 years, during which solar activity increases and then decreases. Right now the sun’s activity is lessened and the sun is being very quiet.
Periods of quiet solar activity normally last about five years. The current period of quiet started in 2007 and has been even calmer than usual. Solar activity is at record lows. The sun’s magnetic fields are the weakest they’ve been since about 1913, and there are fewer sunspots this year even than last year’s record low number of sunspots. The things we depend upon daily, whether phones, power, or tracking and navigation systems, are more accurate and reliable during periods of quiet solar activity. The good news is that during calm times like this, GPS systems are accurate to within a foot. And satellites can stay in orbit for longer periods of time before having to be replaced, saving money and equipment.
Solar activity may increase again in a few years, but for now, enjoy the shining sun and the lack of solar activity. Right now your GPS systems are about as accurate as they can possibly be and your use of tracking systems to track your vehicle, ensure your safety, protect your investments, and to monitor your family or workers is safe and accurate, and will be as long as the sun is quiet.
