Space weather effects on transportation systems : a review of current understanding and future outlook

Abstract

Space weather events, including solar flares, coronal mass ejections, and geomagnetic storms, have significant effects on various transportation systems. This review provides a comprehensive examination of the current understanding and future outlook of space weather effects on air, maritime, railway, and ground transportation. It explores the mechanisms through which space weather causes communication blackouts, satellite navigation failure, elevated cosmic radiation, and geomagnetically induced currents, leading to disruptions in transportation operations. Historical events are analyzed to underscore the diversity and severity of these impacts. Additionally, this review discusses the anticipated challenges posed by the upcoming solar maximum of Solar Cycle 25 and highlights the need for improved forecasting, mitigation strategies, and resilient infrastructure to safeguard transportation systems against space weather threats. By integrating findings from recent studies and historical data, this review aims to enhance the preparedness and response strategies of the transportation sector in the face of evolving space weather risks.