European Space Agency’s satellite trio to watch over our planet’s magnetic shield

European Space Agency’s satellite trio to watch over our planet’s magnetic shield
The magnetic field and electric currents near Earth generate complex forces that have immeasurable impact on our everyday lives. The magnetic field is thought to be largely generated by an ocean of superheated liquid iron that makes up Earth’s the outer core 3000 km under our feet.

ESA’s constellation of three Swarm satellites will give us insights into the complex workings of the magnetic shield that protects our biosphere from charged particles and cosmic radiation. They will perform precise measurements to evaluate its current weakening and understand how it contributes to global change.

Source:
http://www.esa.int/Our_Activities/Observing_the_Earth/Swarm/ESA_s_Swarm_trio_on_its_way_to_watch_over_our_planet_s_magnetic_shield
Image credit: ESA/ATG Medialab