Between the Sun and the Earth, between Science, Environment, and Technology

When Alexander von Humboldt introduced the term “magnetic storm” (magnetische Gewitter) for disturbances of Earth’s magnetic environment that sweep across the globe, the only manifestations visible to most humans were the northern lights. Navigators sometimes noted unreliable compass readings during aurora, but most people were unaware of any effects at all. Researchers at the growing number of magnetic observatories saw more evidence: the regularity of Earth’s magnetism was temporarily replaced by erratic variability. Over time, researchers tied these storms to the Sun, but not until the late 20th century did the causes and patterns of these electromagnetic environments start to emerge. Simultaneously, the use of new technologies (telegraph, telephone, radio, the power grid, and satellites) have exposed society to real risks. This talk explores how an arcane phenomenon once known mainly to scientists has become an environmental, technological, and policy concern. Space weather crosses the boundaries between history of science, technology, and the environment. The phenomenon has always been there, but it did not matter until our science and technology made it matter.
 
For further information, please contact: Tom Lassman at 202-633-2419; lassmant@si.edu.
 
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