A new study of scientists shows that a burst of solar activity, which is observed in the current solar cycle, can only be the beginning of a much larger phenomenon. It turned out that this spike could be associated with the centennial cycle of Glaysberg, which is slowly gaining momentum. If scientists are confirmed, humanity should be expected even more solar outbreaks in the coming decades.
During the solar cycle, which lasts approximately 11 years, the activity of the sun varies between the minimum and the maximum, which is manifested in a sharp change in the number of solar spots and outbreaks. However, in addition, there is also a less known 100-year-old Glaysberg cycle, which, as it turned out, also affects solar activity. This means that the current solar cycle can only be part of a wider picture.
According to research, the flow of protons in the internal radiation zone of the Earth, which determines the level of solar activity, has recently begun to decline. This may indicate that the minimum of the Glaysberg cycle has already been traveled and the sun enters a new phase of increased activity. Scientists predict that the next decades can be marked with even larger solar flares, which will influence the navigation systems, the operation of spacecraft and even atmospheric conditions on Earth.
Such conclusions are based on the results of the analysis of data obtained by NOAA satellites that have flown through the South Atlantic anomaly-an area with a weakened Earth's magnetic field. Scientists say that if the Glaysberg cycle has re-started, then with each cycle, solar activity will only intensify, and the next maximum of this cycle can be expected in 40-50 years.
