export_ofoct.com

[00:00.36] The huge solar storm that hit Earth this month was described as the biggest in two decades.

[00:06.13] The Sun blasted intense radiation, billions of tonnes of matter and strong magnetic fields at our planet.

[00:13.39] The coloured lights in the sky were spectacular, but the effects could've been much worse.

[00:18.40] Such storms can interrupt radio communications and even damage power grids, which is why the UK has been pushing its partners in the European Space Agency to build a new satellite to give earlier warnings.

[00:31.67] This spacecraft called 'Vigil' has now been ordered from Airbus UK.

[00:36.18] It'll be sent millions of miles away so it can see the side of the Sun that's about to rotate into view of the Earth.

[00:42.69] This'll give forecasters a further three to four days' notice of trouble that could be coming our way.