New Delhi, India

The scientists are puzzled to observe that the Sun has started another solar cycle without completing the current one. 

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It appears to be moving ahead of its time as solar cycle 25 has been only halfway through and solar cycle 26 has only started.

Here's why the Sun has started another solar cycle

Research fellow at the University of Birmingham Dr Rachel Howe, who was working with international analysts, spotted this change in the solar cycle while tracking the internal sound waves of the sun and their contribution to its rotation cycle.

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The activity cycle of the Sun, which is called the solar cycle, ends in approximately 11 years. The solar cycle goes like a celestial rollercoaster and then reaches ‘solar maximum’ which represents the peak of its activity.

Also Read: Strictly speaking, Earth is not revolving around the Sun currently. Here's what it means

In this phase, scientists have observed an increase in sunspots, solar flares and coronal mass ejections, which marks a phase of heightened solar phenomena.

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When it reaches the solar maximum, the magnetic field of the Sun undergoes a polar flip, similar to swapping poles. 

In this natural process, the space weather was influenced and is likely to have significant impacts on the magnetic field and satellite operations of the Earth.

As of now, Sun is in Cycle 25 which started in 2019 and is not likely to end at least for another six years.

Dr Howe and her research team were left puzzled to have found that the subsequent solar cycle Cycle 26's preliminary signs appear to be emerging earlier it was expected.

These indicators included subtle shifts in the magnetic field of the Sun and the formation of new sunspots, which include the arrival of the next cycle.

Watch: The danger posed by Chinese space debris

These observations have left the scientists puzzled as to what this premature activity hints at. 

How will the early solar cycle impact Earth?

If the Sun actually starts its 26th cycle early, scientists are trying to understand if there will be frequent displays of the Northern and Southern lights or if it will lead to more significant solar-related phenomena.

“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,” Dr Howe said. 

(With inputs from agencies)