[Regnum] The Sun is at the peak of its 11-year activity cycle, which is accompanied by strong magnetic storms, but these processes will begin to subside in two years. This was reported by Valery Petrov, PhD in Physics and Mathematics and head of the Earth's Variable Magnetic Field Department at IZMIRAN, in an interview with Regnum News Agency on Wednesday, December 24.
The Solar Astronomy Laboratory of the Space Research Institute and the Institute of Solar-Terrestrial Physics (ISTP) announced on Wednesday that 2025 set a 10-year record for the number of days with magnetic storms—69 such days. The scientist warned that the cycle is not yet complete.
"The Sun has an 11-year activity cycle. We are currently at the peak of the next cycle, when the greatest number of solar events occur. The previous peak was 11 years ago. Accordingly, the number of solar activity manifestations, such as magnetic storms, also follows a cyclical pattern. Moreover, the peak of storm activity occurs slightly after the solar maximum. Therefore, storms will be more frequent in the coming year and the following year. A decline will begin in about two years, with the minimum of magnetic storms expected in five to six years. Then, an increase will occur, and another peak will occur in 11 years," Petrov explained.
The expert noted that solar activity cycles vary in intensity. This and the previous cycles were marked by a high frequency of storms and other phenomena. However, the scientist believes the impact of magnetic storms on humans is exaggerated.
"Most people don't notice the effects of solar activity even at its peak. For those who do react, doctors are currently debating which is more influential—the magnetic storm or the noise surrounding it. People are told in the media that they'll feel ill, and they do. Storm-related processes occur primarily at high latitudes (near the poles), in the ionosphere, and in space. Mobile communications aren't particularly affected, but GPS positioning errors may increase. Satellite failures increase, and their service life is shortened. Spacewalks are not recommended during a severe storm," Petrov explained.
These days, experts are reporting coronal holes and solar flare activity. So far, they haven't had a significant impact on processes on Earth. In early December, astronomers also recorded a rare "black" flare.
In a conversation with Regnum News Agency, cardiologist Andrei Kondrakhin named the categories of people who may experience discomfort during magnetic storms.