One key highlight of this release is the continued movement of the magnetic north pole, which is edging closer to Russia.
The Earth’s magnetic north pole has a new position, according to the World Magnetic Model (WMM) update released this week. This critical update, designed to track the ever-shifting magnetic fields of our planet, will remain valid until late 2029. One key highlight of this release is the continued movement of the magnetic north pole, which is edging closer to Russia—a trend that has captured the attention of scientists and navigation experts alike.
Magnetic North vs. True North: What’s the Difference?
Understanding the difference between Earth’s geographic North Pole and magnetic north is vital. The geographic North Pole, often called “True North,” is a fixed point at 90° North latitude where the planet’s axis of rotation intersects the surface. In contrast, the magnetic north pole is far from stationary, as its position depends on the dynamic flow of molten metals within Earth’s outer core.
These conductive, liquid metals create electric currents as they move, driven by the Earth’s rotation and internal heat. This motion generates the magnetic field that defines our planet’s two poles. However, unlike the steady geographic North Pole, the magnetic north pole shifts gradually, influenced by the complex behavior of Earth’s core.
Why Does the New Model Matter?
The WMM is a critical tool for technologies that rely on Earth’s magnetic field, including GPS systems and satellite-based navigation. The 2025 update includes the World Magnetic Model High Resolution (WMMHR2025), which provides improved spatial resolution of approximately 300 kilometers at the equator—far more precise than the standard model’s 3,300-kilometer resolution. This increased accuracy ensures reliable navigation for a variety of industries, from aviation to shipping.
The movement of the magnetic north pole has been accelerating in recent decades, traveling approximately 2,250 kilometers from Canada toward Siberia since the 1830s. Between 1990 and 2005, its speed surged from less than 15 kilometers per year to around 50 to 60 kilometers annually. However, in the past five years, scientists observed a sudden deceleration to 35 kilometers per year—a phenomenon unlike anything previously recorded.
“The WMM is officially released today, ensuring users can have the most up-to-date information so they can continue to navigate accurately for the next five years,” said Dr. William Brown, global geomagnetic field modeler at the British Geological Survey (BGS).
As scientists continue to monitor these changes, updates like WMMHR2025 will remain vital for understanding and adapting to Earth’s shifting magnetic landscape. The data not only supports everyday technologies but also contributes to ongoing research into the complex inner workings of our planet.
