Mysterious dent in Earth's magnetic shield

NEWS CENTER

Created: July 26, 2025 12:23

According to NASA, this magnetic weakness doesn't affect life on Earth. However, the situation is different for satellites in low Earth orbit and the International Space Station (ISS). Satellites passing through the anomaly region can be vulnerable to high-energy particles from the Sun. These particles can cause malfunctions, data loss, and permanent damage to satellite systems. Therefore, many satellites shut down their protective systems before entering the anomaly region.

MOVEMENTS IN THE EARTH'S CORE

Scientists attribute this anomaly to the movement of molten iron in Earth's outer core. This vast ocean of liquid metal generates our planet's magnetic field. However, a dense rock mass 2,900 kilometers beneath Africa disrupts this magnetic field, creating the SAA. "The magnetic field in the region is much weaker than its surroundings, creating localized areas of reversed polarity," says NASA geophysicist Weijia Kuang.

IT SPLIT INTO TWO AND MOVES

A 2016 study by NASA's Ashley Greeley revealed that the anomaly was slowly shifting. Another observation in 2020 indicated that the SAA had split into two distinct centers, meaning it was in the process of splitting. The future implications of this situation remain unclear.

A 2020 study showed that the South Atlantic Anomaly is not a new phenomenon, but may be a recurring magnetic perturbation on Earth that has been occurring for at least 11 million years. This suggests that the anomaly may not herald a complete reversal of Earth's magnetic poles.

IT ALSO AFFECTS THE NORTHERN LIGHTS

A new study published in 2024 revealed that the SAA also affects auroras (auroral lights) on Earth.

"The anomaly moves slowly but changes shape. Observing it regularly is critical for developing models and forecasts," says NASA geophysicist Terry Sabaka.