Something is happening on the Sun. Notes from hundreds of years ago have been confirmed
Scientists' attention was drawn to notes regarding the Sun's activity, which were found in Korean royal chronicles from the 17th and 18th centuries. They provided groundbreaking information.
11:41 AM EDT, October 23, 2023
The sun goes through various cycles in which the star's activity increases or decreases. It is commonly believed that these cycles last on average 11 years. However, the latest analysis of data from the cusp of 1645-1715 indicates that they once lasted even 3 years less. This anomaly occurred in a very specific period, which is referred to as the Maunder Minimum or the Great Solar Minimum.
Notes from 300 years ago helped uncover the mystery
Scientists have analyzed records from the 17th and 18th centuries and discovered very interesting information about what was happening to the Sun during that time. It turned out that during the mentioned time, there were many fewer sunspots observed, confirming the very low solar activity. The researchers of the time even mention the occurrence of a mini ice age, which confirms how noticeable the reduced activity of our star was.
Another interesting anomaly that was likely described in Korean texts is the so-called Western Pacific anomaly. It occurs when solar radiation interacts with the Earth's magnetic field. Red auroras are then observed in the sky.
In the article analyzing Korean texts, contemporary scientists do not explain why once the solar cycles lasted even about 3 years less than today. This topic will certainly be examined in detail in the near future. For now, we can prepare for the peak of our star's activity, which is likely to occur in 2024. This will be associated with an increased frequency of auroras appearing in the sky. Also, more frequent satellite failures, which can cause temporary interruptions in communication.