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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Sun about to enter 'Solar Maximum' phase; large sunspot groups seen – PAGASA

Sun about to enter 'Solar Maximum' phase; large sunspot groups seen – PAGASA

Published Apr 21, 2022 01:47 pm

The state weather bureau on Thursday, April 21, released images of the Sun showing three large sunspot groups.

“Sunspots are areas on the Sun’s surface that are relatively cooler and appear dark than its surroundings,” said PAGASA.

Sunspot group (Image courtesy of PAGASA)

The patches, according to the state weather bureau, are “roughly the size” of Earth or about 20 up to 40 times larger than a typical sunspot.

Sunspot compared to planets (Image courtesy of PAGASA)

Meanwhile, PAGASA likewise explained that the recent increase in solar activities is expected as the Sun is entering a new phase.

“The Sun is entering the Solar Maximum phase of its current solar cycle where there will be an expected increase in solar activities frequent solar flares, increased number of sunspots and the like,” said PAGASA.

“Do not look at the Sun directly without a special filter to protect your eyes,” the state weather bureau warned.

Related Tags

SUNSPOT SOLAR CYCLE sun astronomy PAGASA
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