Earth’s magnetic north pole has undergone another significant shift, prompting scientists to officially update its position. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the British Geological Survey (BGS) released the latest World Magnetic Model (WMM) in December 2024, reflecting this movement.
Understanding the Shift:
Unlike the geographic North Pole, which is fixed, the magnetic north pole is influenced by the dynamic movements of molten iron within Earth’s outer core. Since its discovery in 1831 in northern Canada, the magnetic north pole has been drifting across the Arctic. Notably, its speed increased from about 9.3 miles (15 kilometers) per year to 34.2 miles (55 kilometers) per year in the 1990s. Recently, this drift has slowed to approximately 21.7 miles (35 kilometers) per year.
Implications of the Movement:
This shift necessitates updates to navigation systems that rely on magnetic north, including those used in aviation, maritime operations, and smartphone GPS services. The WMM is updated every five years to ensure accuracy, with the latest version providing enhanced spatial resolution for improved directional precision.
Scientists continue to study the underlying causes of these changes, which are believed to be linked to complex fluid movements in Earth’s core. Understanding these shifts is crucial, as they have significant implications for navigation and communication systems worldwide