We are waiting for decades of magnetic storms. Astronomers warn of the beginning of an unusual solar cycle

If the hypothesis is correct, in the coming decades we will have an increase in solar activity, accompanied by splashes of cosmic weather, which threaten satellites, astronauts and communication systems.

Usually solar activity varies within a 11-year cycle known as a cycle of solar spots. However, historical data testify to the existence and more cycles. CGC is characterized by changes in the intensity of solar spots every 80–100 years. According to the researchers, the analysis of the flow of protons in the internal radiation zone of the Earth showed that this figure has begun to decline sharply in recent years – a possible sign of the end of the CGC minimum.

The study published in Space Weather magazine suggests that we have passed the minimum CGC and now move to its maximum, which can come near the 28th solar cycle, 40-50 years. This can lead to doubling of solar activity compared to the current maximum.

Increased activity of the sun causes the atmosphere of the Earth, which affects the orbits of satellites. There have already been cases of loss of devices. The expansion of private satellite networks makes this threat even more significant. The risk of radiation effects on astronauts in the conditions of growing expansion into space is also increasing.

Despite the skepticism of some scholars, the protone flow data obtained in the area of ​​the South Atlantic anomaly indicate the beginning of a new solar era. Observations are ongoing, but forecasts indicate the need to adapt space technologies to new realities.