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Amy Hessl, a WVU geography professor, is exploring how tree rings reveal past extreme space weather, with support from the National Science Foundation. Using tree ring records that document historic increases in atmospheric radiocarbon from rare "Miyake events" — massive solar energetic particle events that can disrupt satellite communication — Hessl studies how such storms could impact modern technology. Her research includes comparing radiocarbon uptake in three distinct U.S. tree species: Utah’s bristlecone pine, North Carolina’s bald cypress, and Missouri’s oak trees. By understanding how trees record these events, Hessl aims to improve preparedness for potentially catastrophic space weather.

WVU researcher says ancient tree rings may help Earth prepare for dangerous space weather

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