Solar Storms Impact Satellites in Low Earth Orbit, ISRO Reports

Solar storms have caused significant disruptions to satellites operating in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). These disturbances arise from a series of powerful solar flares, specifically from a group of sunspots known as Active Region 4274, which have emitted X-class flares and Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs). The resulting geomagnetic storms have led to increased atmospheric drag, prompting satellite operators to closely monitor conditions.

During solar storms, the injection of heat into Earth’s atmosphere results in an expansion similar to that of a hot air balloon. This expansion elevates atmospheric density at satellite altitudes, which in turn intensifies drag, causing satellites to descend more rapidly. The impact is particularly pronounced for satellites in LEO, where operators must remain vigilant regarding space weather alerts.

ISRO’s Monitoring Efforts

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has implemented a comprehensive monitoring strategy through its Master Control Facility. This facility actively tracks the orbits of operational satellites, especially during periods of heightened solar activity. According to forecasts from the Center of Excellence in Space Sciences India (CESSI), hosted by the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) in Kolkata, the recent solar activity could lead to further geomagnetic disturbances.

CESSI indicated that interactions between multiple CMEs could exacerbate geomagnetic perturbations. These disturbances may result in auroras at high to mid-latitudes and raise the likelihood of ionospheric issues, including satellite signal outages and errors in Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) positioning.

In the wake of the solar storms in May 2024, ISRO reported that several satellites experienced increased orbital decay. For instance, the EOS-07 satellite recorded a decay of approximately 600 metres in a single day, while its normal decay is around 300 metres. Similarly, the Cartosat-2F satellite faced a decay of 180 metres in one day, a stark contrast to its usual range of 35 to 40 metres.

Operational Adjustments During Solar Events

In anticipation of solar storms, ISRO has taken proactive measures to safeguard its satellites. Some satellites have their star sensors turned off to prevent potential damage from increased atmospheric drag. Additionally, satellites equipped with single solar panels require constant monitoring and regular momentum dumping to maintain stability.

The Master Control Facility team remains on high alert for geomagnetic activity, ensuring that all operations are adjusted in response to changing conditions. As satellite technology continues to evolve, the ability to adapt to solar weather patterns becomes increasingly crucial for maintaining the integrity of space operations.

With solar storms posing ongoing challenges, the collaboration between scientific institutions and space agencies like ISRO will be vital in understanding and mitigating the impacts of these natural phenomena on satellite functionality and reliability.