Russian astronomer reports on space threats in 2025

Most of the threats that come from space are not dangerous, but they can create problems, Sergei Yazev, director of the Astronomical Observatory of Irkutsk State University and senior researcher at the Institute of Solar-Terrestrial Physics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, told Izvestia in an exclusive interview.

"There are various factors that, however, it is difficult to call threats, but they can create problems," the scientist said.

In his opinion, magnetic storms can be attributed to such risks. They appear to be safe for humans, but they can induce currents in power lines, pipelines, rails and other extended metal objects.

This can lead to corrosion and breakdowns. However, engineers lay down solutions to minimize the impact of induced currents during design.

Among other risks, the astronomer noted cosmic radiation, contamination of the Earth's biosphere by extraterrestrial organisms and collision of the planet with celestial bodies. However, the probability of catastrophic scenarios due to these threats is minimal.

Read more in an exclusive interview with Izvestia:

"In 2025, solar flares may be particularly powerful."