(February 12, 2026)

Scientists call the current cycle Solar Cycle 25, the 25th numbered cycle since recordkeeping began in the 1700s. Even though it may feel like the northern lights have been more common in recent years, Solar Cycle 25 ranks among the lowest of the past 126 years.

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Earth’s magnetic field has been slowly weakening for more than a century, which means our natural shield isn’t quite as strong as it used to be. That doesn’t create solar storms, but it can change how much of that energy actually makes it through when a strong one hits.