The South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA), a vast region where Earth’s magnetic field has weakened significantly, continues to puzzle scientists as it grows and changes shape. Located primarily over South America and the southern Atlantic Ocean, this magnetic “dent” is drawing increasing attention from NASA as it poses real risks to satellites and spacecraft. “When you burn clay at very high temperatures, you actually stabilize the magnetic minerals,” explains geophysicist John Tarduno. “When they cool, they lock in a record of Earth’s magnetic field.” A Weakening Shield Earth’s magnetic field acts as our planet’s protective bubble, deflecting harmful radiation and charged … Continue reading South Atlantic Anomaly’s Expansion Poses Increased Risks to Satellites and Spacecraft Operations