This video contains variations of short sequence 3-D graphics illustrating solar Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) events and their effect on near-Earth space.

The largely empty space between the planets is dominated by the solar wind -a stream of electrically charged particles- which are ejected at supersonic speeds by the Sun. The Earth's magnetosphere acts as a protection from these solar storms, but there are two weak points in Earth's defence, occuring near the planet's north and south magnetic poles.
ESA's Cluster 2 mission, launched in 2000, will exploit a once in an 11-year opportunity of peak solar activity to study the sun's impact on the earth. The effects of this peak range from the appearance of auroras in the polar night sky, to the malfunction of satellites and disruption of power networks.

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