Topic: Aurora Borealis

6 chapters across the catalog

ungreen
Episode 1659 40:03 - 44:02

1659: ungreen

Northern Lights Hype, Digital Photo Enhancement

Widespread sightings of the Northern Lights occurred due to a severe solar storm, though many photos shared online were digitally enhanced by smartphone sensors. The discrepancy between what was visible to the naked eye and what appeared in long-exposure mobile photography is discussed. There is also a mention of HAARP being active during the event.

Mink Road
Episode 1302 2:21:54 - 2:23:37

1302: Mink Road

Geomagnetic Storm, Northern Lights in Michigan

A geomagnetic storm watch was issued following a massive solar flare directed toward Earth, potentially pushing the Northern Lights as far south as Michigan. Meteorologists explained that charged particles from the sun would interact with the Earth's atmosphere to create the aurora. Residents in northern states were advised to look for the phenomenon on Wednesday and Thursday nights.

Rough Patch
Episode 634 1:19:46 - 1:22:54

634: Rough Patch

Magnetic Field Weakening, Polar Flip, Cosmic Rays

The hosts discuss scientific reports from NASA and NOAA regarding the rapid weakening of Earth's magnetic field in the Western Hemisphere. They explore the possibility of a magnetic pole flip, which occurs roughly every 300,000 years. While the flip may not be harmful to life, the hosts note it could disrupt power grids and communication satellites due to increased exposure to cosmic rays.

Episode 343 2:04:46 - 2:09:37

343: ZomBin Laden

Solar Flares, Sunspots and Ham Radio Preparation

A massive solar flare recently grazed Earth, causing the Northern Lights to be visible in Southern England. The hosts discuss the potential for a "direct hit" from future flares to fry satellites and power grids, leading to a discussion on using Faraday cages and Ham radio for emergency communication.

Pap Schmear
Episode 278 1:15:01 - 1:18:50

278: Pap Schmear

Magnetic Pole Shift and the Ides of March

A discussion on the shifting of magnetic north highlights that airports in Florida have had to rename runways to reflect changing compass headings. There is speculative talk regarding a total magnetic pole flip that could coincide with the "Ides of March" (March 15th). Scientists suggest that during a flip, the Earth's magnetic field could weaken significantly for centuries, making the Aurora Borealis visible globally.

Obama Armbands
Episode 54 1:29:26 - 1:33:38

54: Obama Armbands

Meteorology for Pilots, Cloud Formations and Safety

The dangers of flying into cumulonimbus (nimbus) clouds are discussed, noting they can reach altitudes of 42,000 feet and cause severe turbulence. Pilots use weather radar to navigate around these formations rather than through them. Personal anecdotes include seeing funnel clouds near Chicago and witnessing the Aurora Borealis from an airplane.