The Sun Wakens

   Written by: LAM Hok-yin       March 2008

The first sunspot region with Solar Cycle 24 polarity was observed earlier on 4 January 2008 and was officially numbered as 10981.  The sunspot was first spotted in high solar latitude, with its magnetic orientation reversed from the last solar cycle.  Therefore, scientists were convinced that the new solar cycle is within sight. (Source: SoHO)

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Although the new cycle has not officially started, the sunspot may be a precursor to Solar Cycle 24.  The number of sunspot observed on the Suns surface is predicted to increase gradually in the next few years.  Solar activity is expected to peak in 2011 or 2012.

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