These plasma bubbles, which can interfere with satellite communications and GPS, were observed on a large scale following a solar storm in November.
The formation of plasma bubbles is influenced by factors such as geomagnetic activity, atmospheric conditions, and the Earth’s magnetic field. Scientists study these bubbles to better understand and mitigate their impact on communication systems.
The detection was made using the Low Latitude Long Range Ionospheric Radar (LARID), which has an impressive detection range of 9,600 kilometers. This radar system allows scientists to track and observe the movement and formation of plasma bubbles in greater detail than ever before.
It's fascinating how advancements in radar technology are enabling such detailed observations of phenomena that can impact our communication systems.
Why Only Over Egyptian Pyramids?
The answer is No, the plasma bubbles detected over the Egyptian pyramids were not at all exclusive to that location. These bubbles can form in various regions around the equator and are influenced by solar activity and geomagnetic conditions. The detection over the pyramids was likely due to the specific timing and location of the solar storm that triggered the formation of these bubbles.The word 'Mysterious' is tied to it because it is relatively new phenomena, detected only 83 years ago, and scientists are still understanding these bubbles.
The first irregularities in the ionosphere, now called as "Plasma Bubble", were observed as diffuse echoes in ionosonde observations. These observations were made by Booker and Wells in 1938. The phenomenon was initially referred to as equatorial spread-F.
The radar technology used by Chinese scientists has a wide detection range, allowing them to observe these phenomena over large areas, including the pyramids and other regions like the Midway Islands. The occurrence over the pyramids was coincidental and not unique to that location.
Effect on Satellite Communications
Plasma bubbles can significantly impact communication systems in several ways.Plasma bubbles can cause rapid fluctuations in the ionosphere’s electron density, leading to signal fading and loss. This affects high-frequency (HF) radio communications, which rely on ionospheric reflection. The irregularities caused by plasma bubbles can distort GPS signals as they pass through the ionosphere. This can lead to errors in position calculations, affecting navigation systems used in aviation, maritime, and personal devices.
Satellites that communicate with ground stations via radio waves can experience signal degradation or loss when plasma bubbles are present. This can impact services like satellite TV, internet, and military communications.
The variability in the ionosphere can cause phase and amplitude scintillation, which disrupts the transmission of data over long distances. This can affect both civilian and military communication networks.
Understanding and predicting plasma bubbles is crucial for space weather forecasting. Accurate forecasts can help mitigate the impact on communication systems by allowing operators to take preventive measures.
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