They can cause long-lasting radiation storms in our planet's upper atmosphere and trigger radio blackouts.

MSN: Big sunspot unleashes an intense solar flare

The new body monitors could, if a driving hazard appeared imminent, trigger the car's safety systems to tap the brakes, turn off a radio, block a cellphone from ringing or take other actions.

WSJ: Designing a Car That Takes Your Pulse, Senses If You're Ill