NEW DELHI: Scientists have detected the first signs of the Sun’s next 11-year solar cycle, even as it is only halfway through its current one.

This new discovery was presented by researchers from the University of Birmingham at the Royal Astronomical Society’s National Astronomy Meeting in Hull.

The Sun is currently at the peak of its 25th recorded solar cycle, known as Cycle 25, which began in 2019.

This period, called ‘solar maximum’, is characterised by increased sunspot activity, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections. These phenomena result in a surge of electromagnetic energy directed towards Earth, leading to more frequent and visible aurorae at lower latitudes.

Dr. Rachel Howe and her international team have identified faint indications of the upcoming Cycle 26 in their analysis of the Sun’s internal sound waves. These waves are used to measure the Sun’s rotation, revealing a pattern of bands that rotate at slightly different speeds. Known as solar torsional oscillation, these bands move towards the Sun’s equator and poles during the activity cycle.

“We’re likely seeing the first traces of Cycle 26, which won’t officially start until about 2030,” Dr. Howe explained. The team’s findings are based on helioseismic data collected since 1995 from various solar observatories, including the Global Oscillation Network Group (GONG) and space-based instruments.

This early detection of the next solar cycle could provide valuable insights into the Sun’s behaviour and its potential impacts on Earth. Solar cycles affect space weather, which can influence satellite operations, radio communications, and even power grids on Earth.

The discovery also highlights the importance of long-term solar observations. As Dr. Howe noted, “With more data, I hope we can understand more about the part these flows play in the intricate dance of plasma and magnetic fields that form the solar cycle.”

As scientists continue to monitor these early signs, their findings could lead to improved predictions of solar activity and its effects on our planet, potentially enhancing our ability to prepare for and mitigate the impacts of space weather events.

Agencies

Agencies