Participants engaged in four modules that simulated various solar events, leading to communication blackouts, GPS failures, power outages, and radiation risks for astronauts and satellites.

One scenario even projected a solar storm impacting Earth during a planned astronaut mission to the Moon in early 2028, challenging agencies to evaluate their emergency protocols.

The exercise underscored the necessity for ongoing preparedness for space weather events, akin to preparations for natural disasters and cybersecurity threats.

However, participants struggled with the scientific implications of space weather, highlighting the need for improved education for both government staff and the public.

The report following the drill called for investment in advanced space weather satellite systems and increased collaboration with international partners and private companies to enhance monitoring capabilities.

Currently, space weather forecasting remains challenging, as agencies can only assess the impact of coronal mass ejections approximately 30 minutes before they reach Earth, significantly limiting response time.

Moreover, many agencies lack clear Continuity of Operations (COOP) plans for solar storms, complicating their response efforts.

The first U.S. solar storm emergency drill, conducted by the Space Weather Operations, Research, and Mitigation (SWORM) task force, revealed significant gaps in the government's preparedness for severe solar storms that could threaten critical infrastructure.

This drill took place from May 8 to 9, 2024, in Maryland and Colorado, involving key agencies such as NOAA and DHS.

Coincidentally, just a day after the drill, a G5 geomagnetic storm occurred on May 10, 2024, causing power grid issues and spectacular auroras, illustrating the real-world relevance of the exercise.

Despite the identified shortcomings, participants left with a greater understanding of solar storms and the importance of interagency communication.

SWORM, formed in 2014, aims to enhance national space weather preparedness and includes agencies like NOAA and DHS.