Something unexpected is happening on the Sun, Nasa says: <\/p>\n
Nothing. <\/p>\n
While all predictions suggest that 2013 should mark the high point of solar activity over a regular 11-year sunspot cycle - the so-called 'Solar Max' - our star is actually in a remarkably quiet mood. <\/p>\n
Nasa said that since the start of the year there has been a pronounced lack of major solar flares and other activity which should be seen at this point in the Sun's cycle. <\/p>\n<\/p>\n
Above: a picture released by Nasa illustrating low solar activity <\/p>\n
Nasa said that \"sunspot numbers are well below their values from 2011, and strong solar flares have been infrequent.\" <\/p>\n
It went on: <\/p>\n
However, there is no reason to panic. Nasa explains in a lengthy and interesting post that the solar cycle is very complex, and can have multiple peaks and troughs over time. It's worth a read if you're interested or terrified. <\/p>\n
Meanwhile solar flares are still occurring - one forced the Mars rover Curiosity into safe mode earlier this week - and the current lull is described as a \"quiet interlude\" rather than a potential source of humanity's ultimate downfall. <\/p>\n
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Excerpt from: <\/p>\n
Nasa : 'Something Is Wrong With The Sun'<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Something unexpected is happening on the Sun, Nasa says: Nothing. While all predictions suggest that 2013 should mark the high point of solar activity over a regular 11-year sunspot cycle - the so-called 'Solar Max' - our star is actually in a remarkably quiet mood. Nasa said that since the start of the year there has been a pronounced lack of major solar flares and other activity which should be seen at this point in the Sun's cycle Continue reading