Earlier Than Previously Estimated

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Solar Cycle 25: Sun Predicted to Reach Peak in 2024

Earlier than Previously Estimated

According to experts at NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center, the sun will reach the peak of its current activity cycle in 2024, one year earlier than previous estimates. The updated prediction, which was published on May 7, 2023, calls for Solar Cycle 25 to peak between January and October of 2024 with a maximum sunspot number of 115.

Implications for Space Weather

The sun's activity cycle is characterized by periods of high and low solar activity. During periods of high activity, the sun produces more sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections (CMEs). These phenomena can have significant impacts on Earth's space environment, including disruptions to satellites, power grids, and communications systems.

The early peak of Solar Cycle 25 could lead to increased levels of space weather activity in the coming years. Space weather forecasters are already monitoring the sun for signs of activity and are urging satellite operators and other critical infrastructure providers to take steps to mitigate the potential effects of space weather.

Medium