Abstract: Geomagnetically induced currents (GIC) are currents induced in conductive materials on the Earth’s surface due to Earth’s magnetic field variations. GICs have the potential to cause severe damage to manufactured infrastructure, including power grids, oil and gas pipelines, and high-speed railways, resulting in adverse consequences such as power system failures, communication disruptions, and damage to electronic equipment, ultimately affecting the stability and functionality of these systems. The significance of studying GIC lies in understanding their generation mechanisms and influencing factors, thereby providing a scientific foundation for developing effective prevention and mitigation strategies. Based on an in-depth review of the progress in GIC research, this paper elaborates on the mechanisms of GIC generation and the influencing factors, encompassing the impacts of space weather, Earth’s environmental conditions, and the power system on GIC. It provides an overview of the current state of GIC research, offering integrated assessments from space physics, geophysics, and electrical engineering. Furthermore, the paper provides a detailed description of the steps involved in estimating GIC, including using geomagnetic field data and modeling, along with calculating electric fields and GIC within conductors. It emphasizes analyzing how various geophysical parameters affect GIC estimates and their interrelationships. In conclusion, the paper discusses the challenges in GIC research, highlights the potential contributions of geophysics in addressing related issues, and provides a perspective on the future of GIC research.

Key words: geomagnetically induced currents, earth’s magnetic field, magnetotellurics, geomagnetic disaster