Most powerful Northern Lights in a generation expose weaknesses in UK infrastructure

AI Summary

In May 2024, a powerful geomagnetic storm associated with one of the most spectacular Northern Lights displays in a generation tested the UK's infrastructure resilience to severe space weather. This event exposed vulnerabilities in the UK’s power and communication systems, raising concerns about preparedness for future geomagnetic disturbances.

Millions of people across the UK marveled at the spectacular northern lights that lit up the night sky in May 2024. But while the display captivated skywatchers, the geomagnetic storm behind it also served as the biggest test in a generation of the UK's preparedness for severe space weather. So did it pass?