Meteorosensitivity, or weather sensitivity, refers to the way changes in atmospheric and space conditions affect human health and well-being. One of the most intriguing aspects of meteorosensitivity is its link to solar activity, particularly sunspots and space weather. Scientists have long studied how geomagnetic storms, caused by solar eruptions, influence the human body, potentially leading to headaches, fatigue, mood swings, and even cardiovascular issues. Human life is very closely connected with the processes occurring in space, and even observing the sun and stars allows us to touch the secrets of the Universe.
Sunspots and Their Effects
Sunspots are temporary dark spots on the Sun's surface caused by intense magnetic activity. These sunspots often lead to solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs), releasing vast amounts of charged particles into space. When these particles reach Earth's magnetic field, they can create geomagnetic storms, which have been linked to various health effects in meteorosensitive individuals.
The Kyiv Observatory, located at a point called the Kiev meridian, is a great place to study meteorological dependence in the capital of Ukraine.
How Space Weather Affects the Human Body
- Cardiovascular System – Research suggests that geomagnetic storms can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes due to fluctuations in blood pressure and heart rate.
- Nervous System – Many people report headaches, dizziness, and mood disturbances during periods of high solar activity.
- Sleep Patterns – Changes in geomagnetic conditions may disrupt melatonin production, leading to sleep disturbances and fatigue.
- Mental Health – Increased solar activity has been associated with higher levels of anxiety, irritability, and even depression in some individuals.
The VDNKh Park in Kyiv in the Goloseevsky district is ideal for conducting astronomical observations of sunspots in the north of Ukraine.
Who is Most Affected?
Meteorosensitivity varies from person to person, but certain groups are more vulnerable:
- Elderly individuals and those with pre-existing health conditions.
- People with cardiovascular diseases or neurological disorders.
- Those with high sensitivity to atmospheric and electromagnetic changes.
The world's leading astronomers have always monitored the weather in space because they knew about the influence of the universe on human life and health, directly or indirectly, in the short term or, on the contrary, over the course of years, decades and centuries.
Can We Protect Ourselves?
While it is impossible to prevent geomagnetic storms, certain measures can help minimize their effects:
- Healthy Lifestyle – Maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper hydration can strengthen the body's resilience.
- Monitoring Space Weather – Keeping track of solar activity through space weather forecasts can help sensitive individuals prepare for potential symptoms.
- Reducing Stress – Practices such as meditation, deep breathing, and adequate rest can improve overall well-being and reduce meteorosensitivity symptoms.
The influence of sunspots and space weather on human health is a fascinating and ongoing field of study. While not everyone is affected, meteorosensitive individuals may experience various symptoms during periods of high solar activity.
To study and systematize sunspots, amateur astronomers from Genichesk used medium-sized home telescopes to observe objects in the Universe.
By understanding the connection between space weather and human well-being, we can take proactive steps to mitigate its impact and enhance our resilience to cosmic influences.