Why in the News?

Earth’s magnetic north pole, a critical point where the planet’s magnetic field lines converge, is in constant motion due to changes in the Earth’s molten core. Currently located in the Arctic Ocean above Canada, the magnetic north pole has been moving towards Siberia at an accelerated pace.

What is the World Magnetic Model (WMM)?

• The WMM is the standard model used for navigation, attitude, and heading referencing systems that rely on Earth’s geomagnetic field.
• It is widely used in civilian applications, including navigation and heading systems, as well as in military operations.
• The WMM provides accurate data on the Earth’s magnetic field and the location of the magnetic North Pole, combining measurements from ground stations and satellites.
• Revisions and Updates:
  • A new version is updated every five years to address changes in the magnetic field.
  • The latest version, WMM2025, was released on December 17, 2024, and will remain valid until late 2029.
• The WMM is jointly developed by the United States’ National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) and the United Kingdom’s Defence Geographic Centre (DGC), with technical support from NCEI and the British Geological Survey (BGS).
• It serves both civilian and military purposes, ensuring accuracy in navigation systems, GPS applications, and other tools dependent on Earth’s magnetic field.

Why is the Magnetic North Pole Moving?

• The magnetic North Pole moves due to the dynamic flow of molten iron and other metals in Earth’s outer core, which generates the planet’s magnetic field.
• These movements cause shifts in magnetic field lines, leading to the pole’s drift over time.
• The pole was first identified in Canada in 1831 and has since moved over 400 km toward Russia.
• Key Observations of Movement:
  • From 1990 to 2000, the pole drifted at a rapid rate of 55 km/year.
  • By 2015, this rate slowed to 35 km/year, but the drift remains unpredictable.
  • Currently, the pole is moving closer to Siberia, reflecting changes in Earth’s core dynamics.
• Impact of Movement:
  • The drift affects navigation systems, aviation routes, and Earth’s magnetic shielding against harmful solar radiation.
  • Scientists monitor this movement using the WMM to ensure updated predictions and mitigate potential impacts on navigation and environmental protection.

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