NEWS – Indian astronomers discover new correlation using 100 years of solar data from Kodaikanal Solar Observatory. The Method can predict amplitude of upcoming solar cycle and aid in space weather forecasting

HIGHLIGHTS

Importance of Space Weather

– Space weather affects communication, power transmission, spacecraft electronics, and astronaut safety

– Main components: solar wind, coronal mass ejections, and solar flares

Current Forecasting Methods

– Theoretical calculations based on dynamo models

– Extrapolations

– Precursor methods (using solar activity measures to predict next solar maximum)

New Precursor Method

– Width of supergranular cells on solar surface during solar cycle minimum related to sunspots in next solar cycle maximum

– Simple method for space weather forecasting

Significance

– Accurate predictions crucial for protecting modern civilization from space weather impacts