BIRMINGHAM, July 22, 2024 (WAM) — Scientists have detected the initial signs of the Sun’s next 11-year solar cycle using sound waves inside the star, despite the fact that the current cycle is only halfway complete.
According to Russia Today (RT), the current solar cycle has reached its apex, or’solar maximum,’ when the Sun’s magnetic field reverses and its poles switch places, and this period will last until mid-2025.
At solar maximum, the Sun’s surface becomes more active, with more sunspots, flares, and coronal mass ejections. This increases the amount of electromagnetic energy that reaches Earth, resulting in more frequent and lower-altitude auroras.
The current solar cycle, also known as Cycle 25, began in 2019. It is the 25th cycle since detailed recording of solar sunspot activity began in 1755.
The current solar cycle is expected to continue for another six years. However, astronomers from the University of Birmingham have already found early signals of the next solar cycle, as reported at the Royal Astronomical Society’s National Astronomy Meeting in Hull.
Astronomers examine the Sun’s internal sound waves to determine its rotation, revealing a pattern of bands (solar torsional oscillation) that revolve at different rates. During the activity cycle, these bands migrate towards the Sun’s equator and poles.
Belts with rapid rotation frequently form before the official start of the following solar cycle.