A Big New Sunspot Emerges

Source - Space Weather News for Dec. 15, 2009: http://spaceweather.com

BIG NEW SUNSPOT: Just yesterday, sunspot 1035 was nearly invisible. Today, it is as wide as seven planet Earths. The fast-growing active region burst into view on Dec. 14th with a magnetic polarity that clearly identifies it as a member of new Solar Cycle 24. If the expansion continues apace, it could soon become the largest sunspot of the year. Check http://spaceweather.com for movies, photos and updates.

SOLAR ACTIVITY ALERTS: Would you like a call or text message the next time the sun unleashes a big solar flare--or when a geomagnetic storm erupts? Sign up for Spaceweather Phone and never miss another big event on the sun: http://spaceweatherphone.com .