A dent is evolving within Earth’s Magnetic Field, and it has scientists watching closely. This isn’t necessarily new news though. Scientists have known about this weak spot for decades now, but it’s of importance right now due to one crucial factor-- it’s apparent growth.  This weak spot phenomenon is called The South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA) and it stretches across the Atlantic Ocean from South Africa into Brazil. In this area, the magnetic field is weaker than normal, resulting in a “dent.” The Earth’s magnetic field, also known as the geomagnetic field, is important as it protects us against solar windー a flow of charged particles that are released from the upper atmosphere of the Sun.   How Can This Affect Us?  The dent is no need for immediate worry though -- it doesn’t have noticeable effects on daily life nor does it pose a danger to humans. However, it isn’t completely harmless. Experts say the weak spot could cause glitches or permanent damage to satellites as they fly through the region -- including the International Space Station which passes directly through the anomaly as it orbits around the planet at a low altitude. The particles in this area are dipping closer to the surface than they would normally, so the radiation from these particles pose a threat to those satellites and their onboard computers. The Latest Update New data has shown growth though -- the anomaly is weakening and developing westward. Furthermore, it's splitting into two parts (instead of one large lobe) and scientists aren’t sure yet what’s driving this process. Continuing to study the area will give us valuable data about changes in the magnetic field. It not only gives us a better understanding of what the SAA is doing now as it applies to satellites, but it can also help explain what's happening deep inside the Earth.  “Even though the SAA is slow-moving, it is going through some change in morphology, so it’s also important that we keep observing it by having continued missions,” Terry Sabaka, a geophysicist at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, said of the anomaly. He maintains that this will help make models and predictions that will help make sense of the growing anomaly.  Discover More With Apex Magnets Today We are constantly on the lookout for new discoveries about magnetism in space! For more fresh and interesting content, browse our blog or subscribe to our newsletter today.