Hi,
Good news for the solar observers, according to the experts, solar cycle No 24 has started, as evidenced by the magnetic pole reversal of a small sunspot group late last year.
It is predicted that this cycle will be a very active one, but not for a few more years yet, As we are at absolute minimum, it is a slow climb over the next 11 years to reach solar max over the 22-year cycle. I would not rush out to buy solar observing gear just yet! spend it on something you can use now.
Here is a link to my AST site, check out solar images over the past 10 years or so:
Shevill Mathers
Regards
Shevill
Picasa Web Albums - Shevill - AstroTa...