Predicting Solar Storms Seven Years Ahead | Science News

Scientists have cracked a seven-year forecast for the Sun’s next activity cycle by spotting a key “switch-off” point in the current solar cycle — the moment extreme space weather abruptly ends. By measuring sunspot numbers at that precise moment, they can reliably predict the intensity of the next cycle, already successfully forecasting Solar Cycle 26. This breakthrough leverages the Sun’s predictable 11-year magnetic rhythm, where sudden drops in sunspots — not gradual fades — act as a hidden solar clock. The method confirmed Solar Cycle 25’s heightened activity, explaining recent record-breaking auroras and powerful solar storms that lit up skies across the UK — including auroras visible far south of normal. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/7e83ee294ad55f04