Sun to Reach Solar Maximum by Next Year: What Happens Then?
All images: NASA
All images: NASA
The solar minimum between Solar Cycle 24 and 25 happened in December 2019. The solar cycle is expected to continue till 2030. According to the US National Weather Service, solar maximum is expected in July 2025, with a peak of 115 sunspots.
According to NASA, every 11 years or so, the Sun's magnetic field completely flips. This means that the Sun's north and south poles switch places. Then it takes another 11 years for the poles to switch places again.
The solar cycle affects activity on the Sun's surface, such as sunspots that are caused by the Sun's magnetic fields. NASA states the beginning of a solar cycle is solar minimum (when the Sun has the least sunspots). Solar maximum happens when the Sun has the most sunspots.
The actual impact of the solar maximum of 2025 is not known. However, several reports have suggested that the heightened activity in the Sun could lead to radio and satellite blackouts. The solar maximum can also cause worldwide internet and power outages.
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