Solar Activity OverviewEvery second of every day massive amounts of solar radiation slam into Earth. This is not always a bad thing. Without the energy radiated by the Sun, life on Earth would be impossible. Climate systems, ecosystems, and hydro logic systems all are dependent upon solar radiation. An luckily, the Earths atmosphere and magnetic field shield us from excessive radiation, letting just the right amount through so that Earth can say in balance. Until now. As 2012 approaches, two factors increase the probability that solar radiation will cause the cataclysmic end of life on Earth; increased solar activity and the corresponding rise in solar radiation to catastrophic levels; and the depletion of the Earths magnetic field. Solar Energy CycleThe Suns energy output is cyclical, peaking every eleven years. The next solar maximum will occur in 2012. However, the normal trough period or solar minimum -- which should have occurred in the middle of the cycle did not happen. In fact, 2005 saw an alarming increase in solar activity, evidenced by large sunspots and powerful solar flares.  The Magnetic FieldThe spinning of the Earths iron-rich molten core generates the planets magnetic field, its a vital protective shield against excessive solar radiation. For reasons not well understood, the cores spinning has gradually slowed since 2002 and the strength of Earths magnetic field will reach its low in 2012. This weakening combined with amplified solar radiation promises a cataclysmic disruption of the Earths ecosystems.  What will happen in 2012?
In 2012 an unprecedented number of sunspots will appear on the Sun and interact with the Earth in catastrophic ways. Sunspots are violent magnetic storms that erupt on the Sun's surface and emit radioactive solar flares. In 2012 a monstrous series of sunspots will rotate across the Sun's surface so as to line up with Earth. This means all radiation from solar flares will hit our planet directly, rather that as a glancing blow. This solar flare bombardment will be capable of penetrating the Earth's depleting magnetic shield without energy dissipation. This could create a "Perfect Storm" scenario. This predicted peak in solar activity will likely create an apocalyptic landscape first imagined during the Cold War years. Powerful electromagnetic storms will pound the globe. This increase in electromagnetic activity will catalyze a devastating disruption of the Earth's ecosystem.  |
