11-05-2025
Sunspot 11 times the size of earth spotted over Muscat sky
Muscat: A massive sunspot, estimated to be 11 times the size of Earth, was observed over Muscat skies on Thursday morning, marking the largest solar blemish recorded so far in 2025.
Captured by Ibrahim al Mahrouqi using specialised solar lenses, the image shows sunspot AR4079 dominating the solar surface.
The photograph, taken on May 8, was shared by the Oman Society of Astronomy and Space and quickly drew attention for its clarity and scientific significance.
The appearance of AR4079 follows a broader surge in solar activity in recent weeks, as sunspot numbers across the solar disk have exceeded projections.
The Oman Society of Astronomy and Space noted that these increases are typical during the solar maximum phase and are often accompanied by strong solar flares and coronal mass ejections.