Researchers Create Space 'Wall' to Weaken Solar Storms

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Imagine, for a moment, if we could actually repel those severe solar storms that knock out our ability to communicate? Researchers at Boston University have already simulated that scenario - with success.

Researchers believe they have developed an effective line of defence against geomagnetic storms that would protect radio communications, GPS systems, electrical grids and satellites from disruption. It's not quite a vaccination against storms, but it provides what the scientists are calling a bold line of defence. The system, known as StormWall, has emerged from research and computer simulations by a Boston University team led by associate engineering professor Brian Walsh.

Using computer modelling, the researchers said they have found a way to fortify Earth's natural magnetic defences against geomagnetic storms by deploying a half-dozen spacecraft in geosynchronous orbit. The six spacecraft would be used to release sodium, calcium, lithium, barium and other materials into space for ionisation by the sun, creating an artificial cloud of electrically charged plasma. Writing in the journal Space Weather, the team said that process would slow the storm's rate of penetration into our planet's magnetic shield, reducing its power by more than 50 per cent.

StormWall, of course, resides only in theory at the moment, but the researchers believe it shows promise globally. They said the risk of contamination from the released chemicals would be insignificant because the solar wind would disperse the material within several hours, preventing any entry into the Earth's atmosphere.

Volunteers Wanted for Intruder Watch team

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The RSGB Monitoring System—more popularly known as Intruder Watch—is a service that monitors the primary amateur service allocations.

The team reports any unauthorised transmissions to the IARU Intruder Watch team and, where appropriate, Ofcom.

The RSGB Intruder Watch Coordinator Ian Suart, GM4AUP is looking for volunteers to assist the team with this important service.

You would monitor the amateur allocations as required and pass any concerns to Ian.

If you’d like to find out more, contact Ian at iw@rsgb.org.uk.

Young Ham Radio Operator Supports the America250 Celebration

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Young Ham Radio Operator Supports the America250 Celebration

While many teenagers spend their evenings playing video games or scrolling social media, 14-year-old amateur radio (also known as “ham radio”) operator Micah Sandoval, KB4MPS, was busy this past week making radio contacts across the US. Sandoval participated as part of a special event station supporting the ARRL America250 Worked All States (WAS) Award program, a year-long operating event celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the United States. ARRL The National Association for Amateur Radio® is a Supporting Partner of America250, the national, nonpartisan organisation charged by Congress to lead the commemoration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, a milestone that marks America’s Semiquincentennial.

Operating alongside his mentor, James Hooper, K9QJS, Sandoval logged over 150 ham radio contacts. The event has attracted the participation of ham radio operators from across the country, and even around the world. 

Sandoval’s amateur radio journey began when he was just nine years old. Inspired by his grandfather, Philip Wagner, WA6NER, who would bring a handheld radio during visits, Sandoval became fascinated by the hobby. That early interest turned into a passion for amateur radio when he earned his Technician Class license in October 2022, upgraded to General Class in June 2025, and achieved the highest amateur radio license level, Amateur Extra, a month later at the age of 13.

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