The scientists alert us to the fact a CME has occurred. Once the CME leaves the Sun it can only be tracked by radio waves until it reaches the SOHO satellite which is located 1 million miles from Earth. Scientists at NOAA are currently developing formulas to determine when the shock will arrive at Earth and how intense it will be. They also watch to see if the particles will arrive at Earth with a northward or southward direction. The same way two magnets with opposite poles attract and like poles repel a southward direction has a greater impact on Earth.
CMEs are also dangerous to astronauts in space.
Radiation Risk was a fun way to learn about the risks space travelers take in exploring our solar system. There were also three projects that each student completed during the project. Everyone made a scale model of their sign of the zodiac, created solar timelines and presented a Space Weather Report.