A chance alignment between Earth and Mars during a passing gust of the solar wind has allowed scientists to compare the protective effects of Earth’s magnetic field with that of the red planets’ naked atmosphere.

The study of the phenomenon revealed that earth’s magnetic field is vital for protecting its atmosphere. The research was conducted on the basis of solar wind striking the planets at same speed. Earth’s magnetic field acts as a shield and prevents loss of martian oxygen.

A number of new planetary alignments are going to happen in near future so scientists will have ample opportunities to study the effects of magnetic fields on a planet.