The Space Research Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, on February 22, reported that the Earth-facing side of the Sun has no visible sunspots, marking the first complete absence since December 2021.

Axar.az reports, citing Izvestia, that sunspots, linked to magnetic fields, indicate solar activity, which powers flares.

Scientists noted that such a disappearance typically occurs during a solar minimum. Historical periods of low activity, like the Maunder Minimum (1645–1715), coincided with colder climates. However, experts say the current lull is likely temporary, as it comes about a year and a half after the solar cycle’s peak.

Solar activity indices reached zero, the lowest in two years, potentially affecting space weather, drones, bird navigation, and human health.