Using a new computer model of the Sun, scientists have begun work on a groundbreaking forecast of the next cycle of sunspots. Mausumi Dikpati of NCAR announced new research leading to an improved forecast of this next cycle (cycle 24) at the annual meeting of the American Astronomical Society. Predicting features of the solar cycle may help anticipate sunspots and associated solar storms, which can disrupt communications and power systems and expose astronauts to high amounts of radiation.

The forecast draws on research by scientists at NCAR's High Altitude Observatory indicating that the ...

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