Scientists predict that the new sunspot cycle will rise faster than normal, reaching its peak in late 1999 or early 2000. The cycle is expected to continue until 2006, when the next cycle begins. This may lead to increased solar activity, potentially affecting satellite communications and Earth's outer atmosphere.
Researchers John H. Thomas and Benjamin Montesinos present a more realistic version of the siphon-flow model, predicting how gas flows from sunspots into the solar atmosphere. Their results match observations in considerable detail, shedding light on astrophysical processes involving strong magnetic fields and jets of gas.
Researchers used SOHO spacecraft to track solar dynamo's position and conditions. They found turbulence and shear flows indicative of dynamo presence at a layer 38,000 miles thick.
Researchers create first detailed map of convection zone, revealing temperature patterns and flow beneath the surface. The map shows no evidence of giant convection cells as predicted, but reveals narrow plumes of cooler gases streaming downward toward the boundary with the radiative layer.