Scientists say they have identified a hidden “switch-off” signal within the Sun’s activity cycle that could allow solar storms to be predicted years in advance.
The signal marks a turning point in the Sun’s roughly eleven-year cycle, giving researchers a new marker to forecast periods of heightened solar activity, including the geomagnetic storms that can disrupt satellites, power grids and communications systems on Earth. Longer-range prediction of solar activity has been a persistent challenge for space weather forecasters.
Researchers say the discovery could improve early-warning systems for solar storms, giving satellite operators and power grid managers more time to prepare for potential disruptions tied to intense solar activity.
Improved long-range forecasting of solar activity would give satellite operators and grid managers additional lead time to harden systems ahead of periods of elevated geomagnetic risk, a gap existing short-term forecasting methods have struggled to close.
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Sources:
https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/top/technology/