Solar System

New Forecast Resets Solar Cycle Expectations

A new forecast suggests that sunspot numbers, aurorae, and other solar activity will peak sooner and at a higher level than expected.

solar flare

Solar System

The Sun's Ramping Up Activity — But Still Weaker Than in the Past

The Sun has recently experienced an uptick in activity, with lots of sunspots accompanied by flares, coronal mass ejections, and visible auroras — but experts still expect a mild solar cycle.

Solar System

Astronomers Map the Solar System's Edge in 3D

Collecting high-speed atoms has enabled researchers to trace the shape of our Sun’s protective bubble.

Solar eruption

Solar System

Tree Rings Help Reconstruct a Millennium of the Sun's Activity

Astronomers are using tree rings as a historical record of solar activity — and they've found that the Sun was much more active in the past.

Sunspots at solar minimum vs. maximum

Solar System

The Sun’s Activity Cycle Is Stabilizing

Solar Cycle 25 is here, and forecasts suggest the next decade of the Sun’s activity will mimic the last one — halting a 40-year trend.

Spotless Sun

Solar System

Is Our Sun Slowing Down in Its Middle Age?

The Sun, now halfway through its life, might be slowing its magnetic activity, which could lead to permanent changes in the sunspots and auroras we see.

Magnetic manifestations

Explore the Night with Bob King

Fun in the Sun: A White-Light Guide to Our Nearest Star

We examine the fascinating solar phenomena that anyone with a small scope and safe solar filter can see, whether the Sun's in eclipse or not.