UK Underprepared for Severe Space Weather Threats

The UK's National Audit Office (NAO) has reported that the country is ill-prepared for severe space weather events, despite improvements in forecasting. Recent solar storms have already caused disruptions, moving thousands of satellites from their orbits. The NAO's report indicates a 5-25% chance of a severe space weather event occurring by 2030, yet the government lacks a comprehensive understanding of potential impacts. The UK's Met Office has made strides in forecasting, with up to 96 hours of warning possible, but the country relies on external data sources and lacks its own space weather satellites. Significant investment in the European Space Agency's Vigil mission is underway, but it won't launch until 2031. The report emphasizes that the government must better prepare for the consequences of severe space weather, as current resilience planning is inadequate.

Key Points: • The UK faces a 5-25% chance of severe space weather by 2030. • Recent solar storms have already disrupted thousands of satellites. • The UK lacks its own space weather satellites and relies on external data.