To Understand The Solar Cycle, Notice How The Sun Sleeps

The Sun's solar cycle is characterized by periods of high activity (solar maximum) and low activity (solar minimum), following an 11-year pattern. A new study by Sandra Chapman reveals that solar maxima do not rise smoothly but instead have a sharp cutoff point, where the number of sunspots drops significantly. This cutoff correlates with the strength of the next solar maximum, though the overall strength of one maximum does not reliably predict the next. The Sun is currently in Cycle 25, which is past its peak and will decline in activity until around 2030. Chapman predicts that Cycle 26 will be weaker than Cycle 25, but the real test will be when the Sun reaches its next switch-off point, expected in 2028.

• Cycle 25 is the current solar cycle, beginning in 2019 and reaching its peak in 2023.
• The cutoff point in solar maxima is a key indicator for predicting the strength of the next cycle.
• Chapman's model suggests Cycle 26 will be weaker than Cycle 25, but the exact timing of the switch-off point remains uncertain.
• The accuracy of predictions depends on the precise timing of the switch-off point, which is still unknown.

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