Solar Maximum Expected to Arrive Early, Peak Higher and Last Longer, According to Scientists

New observation model predicts Solar Cycle 25 to peak between January and October 2024, bringing high solar activity such as increased solar flares, which could impact Earth's electrical grids and satellite operations until at least 2027.

• The solar maximum, the most active point in the sun's 11-year cycle, is predicted to arrive earlier than expected and peak higher, according to the Space Weather Prediction Center (SWPC). This is the first prediction for the current Solar Cycle 25 since December 2019.
• The SWPC's forecast points to a peak between January and October 2024 due to higher than expected sunspot observations. The prediction suggests a maximum sunspot number between 137 and 173 during the solar maximum.
• An increase in sunspots usually leads to the sun being more active and emitting more radiation, resulting in more solar flares and coronal mass ejections. These activities affect Earth's atmosphere and magnetic field, increasing the danger to satellites, airline crews, astronauts, and potentially electrical grids on Earth.
• Based on the new forecast, the sun's peak activity will last longer than previously thought. There might also be a possibility of a double-peak at the solar maximum. This suggests high solar activity and more frequently occurring auroras might extend until at least 2027.
• Solar activity can cause power surges in transmission lines and result in minor errors on GPS devices. Experts are reinforcing electrical grids and designing satellites to better withstand the impacts of space weather.

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