Scientists discover early signs of next solar cycle amid current solar maximum
Date
7/24/2024 5:46:31 AM
(MENAFN) Scientists have recently observed the initial indications of the forthcoming 11-year solar cycle, despite the sun being in the midst of its current cycle, known as “Cycle 25,” which is expected to continue until around 2030. This discovery, presented by a team from the University of Birmingham at the National Astronomy Meeting of the Royal Astronomical Society in London, comes while the sun is experiencing its peak activity period, or “solar maximum.” During this phase, the sun's magnetic field undergoes a reversal, leading to heightened solar activity.
The current solar cycle is characterized by an increase in sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections. These phenomena enhance the electromagnetic energy that reaches Earth, resulting in more frequent and visible auroras at lower latitudes. The findings are based on the analysis of sound waves within the sun, which are used by astronomers to study its rotational patterns. These internal sound waves reveal patterns of torsional oscillations in the sun’s magnetic field, showing variations in speed as the cycle progresses.
Despite the ongoing activity of the current cycle, the early signs of the next solar cycle have been detected, indicating that the sun's magnetic activity is already beginning to shift. This advance knowledge provides valuable insights into the sun's long-term behavior and its impact on space weather and Earth's atmosphere.
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