Hello everyone, I have heard before that every 11 years the sun's north and south magnetic poles flip. I was wondering at what time during the solar cycle this is supposed to happen... and whether or not anyone has ever visually observed anything associated with this event. Thanks! Michael
Michael - Are you perhaps making reference to the magnetic polarity of "old cycle" versus "new cycle" sunspots; they are the opposite polarity, but they can co-exist at the same time.
Time to sign off; does not co-exist mean at the same time? I'm sure that David will answer with the proper explanation.
Bob
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David Knisely
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Reged: 04/19/04
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Loc: Beatrice, Nebraska
Quote: Hello everyone,
I have heard before that every 11 years the sun's north and south magnetic poles flip. I was wondering at what time during the solar cycle this is supposed to happen... and whether or not anyone has ever visually observed anything associated with this event. Thanks!
Michael
The reversal of the overall field is somewhat gradual, but the north-south pole change in polarity mainly takes place near the time of maximum solar activity near the middle of the 11 year cycle. Clear skies to you.