Solar Cycle 25: Sun has begun a new weather; here's what it means

New Delhi : NASA has officially announced that our Sun has entered into a new solar cycle, which is being referred to as 'Solar Cycle 25'.

What is a solar cycle?

Sun's solar activity works on a 11-year cycle with the star transitioning from an active to a quiet phase and then another active phase. And during these phases its effects are experienced throughout the solar system.

Why is it important to track the solar cycle for Earth?

The sun's solar activity is responsible for its radiation emission and keeping a check on it is always beneficial. The radiations could also cause interference with tech in space as well as on the ground including the occasional problems in radio communication.   

Lika Guhathakurta, a heliophysicist at NASA's headquarters explains, "During solar minimum, solar activity does not finish, it just changes form. For example, galactic cosmic rays are at an all-time high in the space environment, and this has all kinds of implications for space exploration, space tourism, and the aviation industry."

In order to stay prepared to tackle any unforeseen circumstances, the researchers keep a check on the solar cycle.

NASA’s Human Exploration and Operations Mission Directorate at the agency’s Headquarters explains, “There is no bad weather, just bad preparation. Space weather is what it is – our job is to prepare.

The previous cycle started sometime in 2008 and went through the whole of 2019. The upcoming cycle is expected to reach its peak by the year 2025. However, they also hint that there is nothing for us to worry about.