Scientists predict rare 'hibernation' of sunspots (AFP)

Gary · Post by **Gary** » Tue Jun 21, 2011 7:38 pm

Scientists predict rare 'hibernation' of sunspots:
http://goo.gl/kBdxL

Will this prediction come true?

superiorstream · Post by **superiorstream** » Fri Jun 24, 2011 5:48 pm

Its too early to say we are entering the maunder period.Currently we are in a prolong third minicycle and seem entering the minimum of that cycle;however those spotless days had not occur yet.Also this third cycle seems to be a prolong one.Whatever it is,we are expecting a upturn of solar activities soon.Whatever happens,we have the chance to enter the possible maunder cycle 5 yrs later--probably;and in the mean time,enjoy those photogenic sunspots in the coming upturn.

superiorstream · Post by **superiorstream** » Tue Jun 28, 2011 7:32 am

This tird mini cycle ended yesterday--27 jun 2011- with the spotless earth facing sun.Looking forward to a more active 4th mini cycle.

superiorstream · Post by **superiorstream** » Tue Jun 28, 2011 9:34 pm

Still no visible sunspot today with a 132 apo refractor f/7 with a 5mm ep.With a few more days of obs;we can safely say that this third minicycle had ended.

superiorstream · Post by **superiorstream** » Fri Jul 29, 2011 8:46 am

As expected,the 4th minicycle within this cycle 24 begins with a show of v.v.small sunspots;but suddenly a row of active sunspots appear;constantly giving class c type flare and by yesterday,several hotspots had appeared.Note that such sudden changes will definitely cause changes in our weather and may cause cloudy/rainy skys.For those with scopes,do take a look--the complexity of those sunspots is v.interesting and best viewed with Ha filters.So,till now,normal sun and no sunspot hibernation.