As we approach solar maximum in a couple of years, can we expect communications and GPS interruptions?

http://foxnewsinsider.com/2012/01/24/sol...d-flight-paths/

It is certainly a possibility as we approach the solar maximum. We should get some advance warning, as in this storm.

But the hams on HF will be very pleased :-).

Discussion at work suggests that Aurora Borealis might be visible as far south as Colorado.

Really neat Aurora last night around 3 a.m. Thought I would get skunked, but the sky cleared after midnight. Covered about 2/3 of the sky. All green (sometimes we get red/purple), but it was impressive to distinctly see the shape and N/S alignment of the magnetic field as the colours travelled along them in the night sky.

I have read that some long-range airline flights over the polar region were re-routed as a precaution.

Probably not a direct hazard to the aircraft themselves, but communications might be dicey over the pole. I imagine that's a no-no in civil aviation.

Besides the communications issue, due to the shape of the protective magnetic field around the Earth, the people on the planes flying near the poles are also exposed to more radiation than usual.

Interesting point, I never thought of that.

"Stewardess, my G&T is glowing! That's brilliant, bring me another!" (Bad joke.)

Perhaps we're not accustomed to airlines showing concern with public safety issues that are beyond litigation. Still, as a guarded optimist, I would hope that this is true.

For some pictures:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/images-from-space/2012/01/12/gIQAH8i3vP_photo.html?hpid=z6#photo=1