11-05-2025
Largest sunspot of 2025 observed in Oman
Muscat: One of the largest sunspots that have ever appeared on the sun's surface during the 25th solar cycle, known as Sunspot 4079, has been spotted in the skies of the Sultanate of Oman. The sunspot's size exceeded 11 times the size of planet Earth, Oman Society of Astronomy and Space (OSAS) said on Sunday.
The giant sunspot was observable from the skies of Muscat Governorate using specialized astronomical equipment in a rare scene that reflects the peak of the ongoing solar activity.
Wesal bint Salem al Hinai, Vice Chair of the Community Engagement Committee at OSAS, said: 'Sunspot 4079 represents one of the largest phenomena we have observed during the current solar cycle. Photographing it from the Sultanate of Oman is a scientific and astronomical achievement that highlights the OSAS's efforts to monitor cosmic phenomena that have a direct impact on Earth.
She added : 'Sunspots are one of the most prominent phenomena associated with the sun's magnetic activity. They represent a crucial indicator for understanding the behaviour of our solar system's star and its multiple effects on planet Earth. The sun undergoes regular cycles of magnetic activity known as "solar cycles," each of which lasts an average of about 11 years. During these cycles, the sun's surface undergoes noticeable changes in the number of sunspots, the intensity of flares, and coronal mass ejections directly impacting space weather and the geomagnetic environment surrounding Earth.'
