Solar sunspots suddenly disappear: What does this mean for Earth
The Russian Academy of Sciences Institute of Space Research (IKI RAN) reported that the side of the Sun facing Earth has almost no sunspots. Experts explained the significance of this phenomenon for Earth.
The Solar Astronomy Laboratory of the Russian Academy of Sciences Institute of Space Research stated that there are almost no sunspots on the Sun, at least on the side facing Earth. This is evident from the significant reduction in the number of solar flares, which could even disappear completely by early this week.
Scientists speculate that the backside of the Sun may also show a similar situation, but there is currently no exact data. Astronomers define sunspots as dark areas on the surface of the Sun, whose temperature is lower than the surrounding photosphere regions. The formation of sunspots is related to magnetic activity, which reduces the transfer of thermal energy.
A close-up of solar sunspots.
The Russian Academy of Sciences Institute of Space Research said: "If this situation continues, the number of solar flares may drop to zero by early this week, which would make people sensitive to weather happy, but radio enthusiasts would be frustrated."
However, scientists do not recommend people to relax completely. According to their prediction, new solar storms may occur starting on August 19 (Tuesday), as coronal holes approach. Coronal holes refer to areas in the Sun's corona with lower plasma density and temperature, and they are the main factors affecting Earth's ionosphere and magnetic field.
Coronal hole.
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