The sun just had no visible sunspots for the 1st time since 2022. Is the end of the current solar cycle near?
Space.com
by Tereza Pultarova February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The sun recently went an unprecedented 1,355 days without visible sunspots—a phenomenon last observed on June 8, 2022. This spotless period marks a significant shift in solar activity as the 25th solar cycle reaches its quieter phase. Sunspots, cooler regions on the sun's surface caused by intense magnetic fields, are often linked to solar flares and geomagnetic storms that can impact Earth. The absence of these spots suggests the current solar cycle may be waning, with solar activity expected to reach its next minimum by 2030.
During its peak in 2024, the 25th solar cycle saw heightened sunspot activity. However, recent observations from NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory revealed a brief two-day period without any visible sunspots on February 22, 2026. While this spotless state was short-lived—additional sunspots were detected just two days later—it highlights the gradual decline in solar activity as the cycle transitions to its less active phase. This slowdown is typical during the solar minimum, which occurs approximately every 11 years.
The last solar minimum between 2018 and 2020 saw an extended period of 700 spotless days, indicating a significant reduction in solar storms and aurora displays. While the current quiet spell is brief, it signals a potential lull in solar activity that could last until the next solar minimum. For now, this rare spotless state offers a glimpse into the sun's natural cycle and its impact on Earth's space environment.
This event matters to readers interested in space science as it provides insights into the sun's behavior and its influence on our planet. Solar minima can affect satellite operations, radio communications, and even global weather patterns. Understanding these cycles helps scientists predict and prepare for future solar activity, ensuring better protection of Earth's technologies and infrastructure.
As the sun continues to transition toward its quieter phase, this spotless period serves as a reminder of the dynamic
Verticals
spacescience
Originally published on Space.com on 2/24/2026