How Xs and Cs spotted in the ionosphere could disrupt life on Earth

Each day, radio signals travel through a layer of Earth’s atmosphere known as the ionosphere. This zone in the upper atmosphere, located 50 to 400 miles above our heads, has puzzles, including alphabet-shaped formations appearing in the plasma after solar storms. Volcanic events, extreme weather, and pressure waves from thunderstorms and hurricanes can also cause disturbances. Astronomers studying data collected by a mission called GOLD have found X and C-shaped features in the ionosphere, even during “quiet times” when there are no atmospheric disturbances. The findings suggest that the atmosphere is more complex than previously thought. Understanding these phenomena may help scientists comprehend the relationship between the ionosphere and weather and the potential risks to communication systems.