Following a major solar storm that revealed weaknesses in China’s radar technology, the country has launched the Meridian Project Phase II. This sophisticated monitoring network comprises 31 ground stations and 282 instruments, enhancing solar activity monitoring and enabling early warnings for potential space weather disruptions, thereby protecting vital infrastructure.

The recent solar storm drastically affected China’s over-the-horizon radar capabilities by disturbing the ionosphere on which these systems depend. This disruption revealed significant vulnerabilities in the radar technology, which is designed to monitor targets beyond Earth’s curvature, specifically up to 3,000 kilometers. Furthermore, the storm resulted in global shortwave communication outages, highlighting the need for advancements in monitoring systems.

In response to these challenges, China has completed the Meridian Project Phase II, an innovative space weather monitoring network. This newly established system is described as the world’s largest and most sophisticated of its kind, featuring 31 ground stations and 282 instruments, including ultra-sensitive lasers and a groundbreaking solar-imaging radio telescope.

The advanced network operates akin to a CT scan for near-Earth space, thus enhancing the ability to monitor solar activity more effectively. By integrating with satellites, the Meridian Project aims to provide early warnings about solar-induced events, safeguarding critical infrastructures from potential cascading failures affecting satellites, navigation systems, and power grids. Supporting over 60 national space missions, this initiative exemplifies China’s commitment to enhancing its space weather monitoring capabilities.

In conclusion, China has proactively addressed the vulnerabilities revealed by recent solar activity through the development of the Meridian Project Phase II. This advanced monitoring network, designed to provide early warnings for solar-related disasters, underscores the importance of safeguarding critical infrastructure. By integrating cutting-edge technology, the initiative marks a significant advancement in global space weather monitoring endeavors.

Original Source: www.scmp.com

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