Impact on Earth: Two large sunspots detected

Two new sunspots have been detected, which is changing the way that the sun vibrates. But how will this affect Earth?

The sun follows an eleven-year sunspot cycle, whereby the number of sunspots increases and decreases, allowing the sun to reach a solar minimum and a solar maximum.

Sunspots can last hours, days or even months in more intense groups, and appear as dark circles on the surface of the sun, which are cooler than their surrounding areas.

The next solar maximum is due to peak in 2025, with the sun already exhibiting signs of frequent activity.

Last week 32 coronal mass ejection (CME) incidents, in other words, instabilities in the sun’s magnetic field occurred, with two very large sunspots now changing the way the sun vibrates.

One of the sunspots, is due to rotate towards Earth imminently, and so could produce a large solar storm if a solar flare or CME were to occur.

Whilst negative impacts could mean a brief disruption to communication such as GPS, it also can produce breathtaking aurora. Keep your eyes peeled on our app, and we’ll be sure to notify you if the chance arises to witness that incredible display!