Solar Winds to Protect Earth During Magnetic Pole Reversal

me98411 writes "A study published in April, hinted at possible anamolies/reversal in Earth's magnetic field. This study found that there is an anamoly in a large patch near South Africa where the Earth's magnetic field points in the opposite direction. Now, according to New Scientist, this planet might be safe during reversal of poles due to formation of replacement field created by interaction with solar winds. Phew! I was worried I will not be able to use my compass." Even better than compasses not being obsoleted, we won't be bombarded with dangerous levels of radiation, or so the scientists say.

Comments

Re:So Lemme Get This Straight....

[PurpleFloyd]

Because a map and decent compass don't cost more than about $25, require batteries, die when they get wet (you can easily get waterproof maps), or lose signal under heavy cover.

I use GPS when I go hiking, but I would never trust it with my life; my compass, on the other hand, has been dropped, stepped on, crushed and generally ill-treated for about 15 years and has served me faithfully through all that time (although I have had to adjust the declination after a few of the really rough treatments). GPS is an incredibly useful tool, but it's never a good idea to trust your life to something whose batteries might go dead on you, especially when an excellent backup is easy to use, weighs only a few ounces, and can be had cheaply.