Huge solar storm threatens to leave Earth without internet for months

Professor Peter Becker, from George Mason University, raises a warning about a possible “internet apocalypse” in 2024 due to an imminent solar storm. It indicates that solar activity could significantly affect global technology, as the internet grew during a period of solar lull and now faces a more active phase of the sun.

This convergence between increased solar activity and human dependence on the internet is unprecedented in history. Solar Cycle 25, which predicts a solar superstorm, was predicted by NOAA to occur earlier than expected, initially scheduled for July 2025.

Becker suggests the most intense phase of the storm could happen next year. He points out that, if the Sun’s coronal mass ejection is aimed at Earth, we would have about 18 to 24 hours of warning before the particles reach the planet, affecting the magnetic field.

The possible damage would not be limited to the internet, but also to the electrical grid, fiber optic cables, GPS, satellites and communications equipment. Repairing this damage could take months.