Have We Hit Solar Maximum?
3/27/2025

The sun's current solar cycle, Solar Cycle 25, has been full of surprises, surpassing predictions with a peak sunspot count of 156.7 in 2024, exceeding earlier forecasts. Scientists debate whether the cycle's solar maximum has already occurred or if another peak awaits later in 2025, as solar cycles can sometimes show a "double peak" pattern. Despite possible signs of decline, experts suggest strong solar activity may persist for a year or more, offering continued opportunities for aurora displays and solar observation.

Solar Maximum Reached
10/16/2024

In a conference today NASA, NOAA, and the International Solar Cycle Prediction Panel announced that the Sun is in its solar maximum period where sunspots, flares, and other activity are at their greatest. This period will last approximately a year according to scientists. Such activity can lead to aurora, such as those seen deep into the continental US last week. Scientists will not be able to determine the exact peak of this solar maximum period for many months because it's only identifiable after they've tracked a consistent decline in solar activity after that peak.