Next sunspot cycle predicted to be intense
Posted: Tue, Mar 7, 2006, 2:09 PM ET (1909 GMT)
Space scientists announced Monday that they expect the next cycle of sunspots and associated solar activity to be as much as 50 percent stronger than the most recent one. Researchers used a model of solar activity that predicted the previous eight 11-year cycles with 98% accuracy to conclude that the upcoming cycle, which will peak in 2012, will start as much as a year late and be 30-50% stronger than the previous cycle. Periods of high sunspot counts are associated with strong solar activity, including storms that can disrupt power and communications systems on Earth and create brilliant auroral displays. The Sun is currently at a minima in its activity cycle, with virtually no sunspots observed on the Sun in the last several weeks.
Space scientists announced Monday that they expect the next cycle of sunspots and associated solar activity to be as much as 50 percent stronger than the most recent one. Researchers used a model of solar activity that predicted the previous eight 11-year cycles with 98% accuracy to conclude that the upcoming cycle, which will peak in 2012, will start as much as a year late and be 30-50% stronger than the previous cycle. Periods of high sunspot counts are associated with strong solar activity, including storms that can disrupt power and communications systems on Earth and create brilliant auroral displays. The Sun is currently at a minima in its activity cycle, with virtually no sunspots observed on the Sun in the last several weeks.
Related Links:
| <<previous article | next article>> |
|
news in brief
|
|
|
|
news links
|
|
Saturday, September 12
ISRO’s ‘privatisation’ move: What India’s space policy says
Indian Express — 2:50 am ET (0650 GMT) After €387 million raise, The Exploration Company wins ESA’s “ALADDIN” cargo capsule contract worth €760 million
EU-Startups — 2:48 am ET (0648 GMT) French ESA astronaut Thomas Pesquet: Europe must 'maximise scientific return' from ISS before closure
EuroNews — 2:47 am ET (0647 GMT) Finland Urges Musk To Allow Starlink Use Against Russia
Aviation Week — 2:45 am ET (0645 GMT) Florida makes case to host new US Space Academy
WESH-TV Orlando — 2:43 am ET (0643 GMT) |
