Sunspots: Mysterious Traces of the Sun

The Sun, our source of life, is constantly changing and moving. In this gigantic source of energy, which is so distant and powerful that it cannot be seen with the naked eye, we notice dark spots appearing on its surface from time to time. So, what are these sunspots and what do they mean?

What are Sunspots?

Sunspots are regions of the photosphere, the surface of the Sun, that appear colder and darker than their surroundings. These spots are formed in regions where the Sun's magnetic activity is intense and their temperatures are between 3,500°C and 4,500°C compared to about 5,500°C of the surrounding surface. Although sunspots cannot be seen with the naked eye, they can be easily examined with special telescopes.

Formation of Sunspots

The Sun's magnetic field is highly complex. The rotational motion of the Sun and the plasma flows in the inner layers cause the magnetic fields to bend and become irregular. This leads to increased magnetic field intensity in certain regions of the Sun and hinders energy transfer. As a result, these regions remain at a lower temperature than their surroundings, forming dark spots.

Cycle of Sunspots

Sunspots are part of the Sun's approximately 11-year magnetic cycle. During this cycle, the number of sunspots increases and decreases at certain intervals. During the period called solar maximum, the number of sunspots reaches a peak and intense solar activity is observed. During the solar minimum, these spots disappear almost completely. These cycles can have an impact not only on the Sun, but also on atmospheric and technological systems on Earth.

Effects of Sunspots on Earth

Sunspots are not only a matter of scientific interest for the Earth; they can also have significant impacts on our planet:

Climate and Weather: Sunspots can cause climate changes by affecting the amount of energy from the Sun. For example, the ‘Little Ice Age’ in the 17th century coincided with a period when sunspots were very rare.

Solar Storms and Technological Impacts: During periods of intense sunspots, magnetic storms and radiation increases are observed. This can lead to serious interruptions, especially on satellites, GPS systems and power grids.

Aurora Borealis: Increased magnetic activity associated with sunspots can increase the frequency and brightness of spectacular natural phenomena such as

aurora (aurora borealis).

Sunspot Research

By studying sunspots, scientists learn about the Sun's magnetic field, its cycles and the overall dynamics of the Sun. Today, modern telescopes, spacecraft and artificial intelligence are used to analyse the behaviour of sunspots and predict their effects on Earth. This research is particularly important for climate change and the safety of technological systems.

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Sunspots are an indicator of the Sun's complex structure and an important clue to the workings of the universe. These dark spots are evidence of both a cosmic mystery and links to life on Earth. Understanding the Sun and its behaviour is not only a journey of scientific discovery, but also a critical step for the future of humanity.

These mysterious traces that appear on the surface of the Sun are not only natural phenomena; they are the beginning of endless questions about the functioning of the universe. 🌞