Earth’s Magnetic North Pole is shifting at an increasing pace towards Russia. Scientists noted that the increase in speed has gathered significant momentum over the past few decades. Such a shift augurs significant implications for Technology, Navigation, and the Environment. The movement is caused by the unpredictable flow of molten iron in the Earth’s outer core, which generates Earth’s magnetic field.
Movement of the Magnetic North Pole:
The magnetic North Pole has moved approximately 2250 km from Canada toward Siberia. Its speed, initially at 15 km/h during the 1990s has surged to 50-60 km/h by the year 2005. Recently the speed stood at 22 km/h. If the current trend continues, It is pertinent to note here that there is a conceptual difference between the Geographic North Pole and the Magnetic North Pole. The Geographic North Pole is the point where all the longitudinal lines converge whereas the Magnetic North Pole shifts constantly due to the Earth’s magnetic field.
What are the Implications of this Shift:
Navigation Systems:
The primary concern with the shifting Magnetic Pole is its impact on navigation systems. GPS Devices, Compasses, and other Navigational tools rely on readings from the magnetic North Pole. The current trend points to a probability of compasses pointing eastward of true north by 2040, which might lead to navigational errors in critical military equipment and smartphones.
Technological Impact:
Apart from the navigation systems, there are broader technological impacts as well. The World Magnetic Model, which helps calibrate GPS and other navigational aids, must be updated regularly to adjust to these shifts. The World Magnetic Model is critical for many technologies used across various sectors.
Environmental Impact:
The Earth’s magnetic field is critical for protecting life from harmful solar radiation. An impact on this field that results in weakening or disruption of this field can lead to increased radiation levels. This potentially leads to higher rates of cancer and other diseases due to increased mutation in cells.
What About the South Pole?:
The Magnetic South Pole is also shifting eastward over Antarctica. These movements are part of a natural cycle that occurs every 300,000 years. However, the last pole reversal occurred before 780,00 years ago. Experts suggest that the magnetic pole reversal is long overdue.
The ongoing shift in the magnetic North Pole toward Russia depicts a significantly complex interplay of geological processes, that has far-reaching implications for navigation technology and environmental safety. It is imperative for scientists and academia to continuously monitor these developments, to mitigate the risks that emerge from this cosmic event.
