Space Weather Forecasting by Sunspot Mapping and Solar Activity Correlation

A major portion of solar research and space weather forecasting is based on sunspot mapping. Sunspots, which are areas of the sun’s surface that appear darker due to a large buildup of plasma that is cooler than the rest of the surface, are created by the sun’s magnetic field and are highly correlated with the solar cycle. The quantity of sunspots indicates the amount of solar activity occurring. Solar flares and coronal mass ejections are caused by sudden changes in magnetic fields connecting sunspots. This research looks to find a correlation between the position of sunspots relative to one another and solar events. This will be done by mapping sunspots using a 16-inch (406-mm) Meade LX200 ACF f/8 telescope (ACF means Advanced Coma ­Free) and comparing the positions with solar activity reports. The primary goal of this research is to determine if sunspot positions can be used to forecast solar events that can disrupt and damage space-based systems.