Scientists Detect Reversal in Giant Molten Iron Flow Beneath the Pacific

Scientists have detected a change in direction in a giant molten iron flow inside Earth’s outer core beneath the Pacific Ocean, a movement observed more than 2,200 kilometers below the surface. After moving westward for decades, the flow is reported to have turned east in 2010, offering new insight into the planet’s magnetic field and internal dynamics. The study used European and German satellite data collected between 1997 and 2025. Researchers said the movement was identified deep within Earth’s outer core, where molten iron helps drive the geodynamo that shapes the magnetic field. Experts said the development does not pose a direct danger. They said it could nevertheless help scientists better understand Earth’s magnetic field and the processes taking place inside the planet.