Sudden changes to the ionosphere can produce phase anomalies in these communications. Pipelines Electric currents induced in the Earth during magnetic storms can result in corrosion in buried conductors such as pipelines, despite protection by special coatings and by electrical voltages applied along the pipeline. Power lines Electric currents induced in power lines during magnetic storms can damage power relays and even cause the power grid to fail. These effects are most likely at high latitudes. Satellite orbits and orientation During bursts of solar activity, the outer atmosphere of the earth expands slightly.
Satellites can experience increased drag, which reduces the lifetime of their orbits.
The increased drag can also affect the orientation of the craft, disrupting its operation. The flow of charged particles from the sun can result in the build up of charge on the craft, interfering with sensitive electronics. This can result in phantom commands disrupting the control of the satellite, even leading to its loss. Manned spacecraft High-energy charged particles during major bursts of solar activity are potentially lethal to the crews of space vehicles. During intense solar events, aurora are sighted at more equatorial latitudes than is normal.