The graphic shows the last 17 solar cycles and their related increased sunspot activity. A solar cycle is a roughly 11-year periodic change in the Sun characterized by variations in the number and intensity of sunspots, as well as a flipping of its magnetic poles.
Multimedia
Videos and images associated with solar storms and their impact on our planet.
Images
SOLAR CYCLES AND INCREASED SUNSPOT ACTIVITY
The graphic shows the last 17 solar cycles and their related increased sunspot activity. A solar cycle is a roughly 11-year periodic change in the Sun characterized by variations in the number and intensity of sunspots, as well as a flipping of its magnetic poles.
Coronal mass ejections (CMEs) move from the surface of the Sun towards Earth through space
Coronal mass ejections (CMEs) move from the surface of the Sun towards Earth through space. Top: CME is generated as an outflow of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun, moving through space to Earth over a matter of hours. Bottom: The magnetic fields of the CME and outflowing solar wind interact with Earth’s magnetic field, which shields it from greater effect.
Coronal mass ejections (CMEs) move from the surface of the Sun towards Earth through space. Top: CME is generated as an outflow of plasma and magnetic fields from the Sun, moving through space to Earth over a matter of hours. Bottom: The magnetic fields of the CME and outflowing solar wind interact with Earth’s magnetic field, which shields it from greater effect.
Shumagin Geomagnetic Observatory
Front gates at Shumagin Geomagnetic Observatory during installation, before landscaping to eliminate standing water.
Front gates at Shumagin Geomagnetic Observatory during installation, before landscaping to eliminate standing water.
Geomagnetism Fredericksburg
Brick signs for Fredericksburg Magnetic Observatory and National Ocean Service.
Brick signs for Fredericksburg Magnetic Observatory and National Ocean Service.
Geomagnetism Fredericksburg
More signs for Fredericksburg Magnetic Observatory.
More signs for Fredericksburg Magnetic Observatory.
Aurora Borealis
Northern lights in and around Fairbanks, Alaska. Copyright: Photo taken by Miles B Tihansky
Northern lights in and around Fairbanks, Alaska. Copyright: Photo taken by Miles B Tihansky
Videos
5 Geomagnetic Storms that Reshaped Society (AD)
Every 11 years the Sun's magnetic field flips. This period is referred to as a solar cycle. As we approach the peak of Solar Cycle 25, activity on the Sun’s surface will increase, including more solar flares, sunspots, and coronal mass ejections.
Every 11 years the Sun's magnetic field flips. This period is referred to as a solar cycle. As we approach the peak of Solar Cycle 25, activity on the Sun’s surface will increase, including more solar flares, sunspots, and coronal mass ejections.
5 Geomagnetic Storms that Reshaped Society
Every 11 years the Sun's magnetic field flips. This period is referred to as a solar cycle. As we approach the peak of Solar Cycle 25, activity on the Sun’s surface will increase, including more solar flares, sunspots, and coronal mass ejections.
Every 11 years the Sun's magnetic field flips. This period is referred to as a solar cycle. As we approach the peak of Solar Cycle 25, activity on the Sun’s surface will increase, including more solar flares, sunspots, and coronal mass ejections.
Hazards: Geomagnetic Storms
Space weather can have important consequences for our lives, such as interference with radio communication, GPS systems, electric power grids, the operation and orientation of satellites, oil and gas drilling, and even air travel as high altitude pilots and astronauts can be subjected to enhanced levels of radiation.
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Space weather can have important consequences for our lives, such as interference with radio communication, GPS systems, electric power grids, the operation and orientation of satellites, oil and gas drilling, and even air travel as high altitude pilots and astronauts can be subjected to enhanced levels of radiation.
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