(IYA2009) is a global celebration of astronomy and its contributions to society and culture, stimulating worldwide interest not only in astronomy, but in science in general, with a particular slant towards young people. CHECK IT OUT IYA2009 CANADA PROGRAM
This section features educational videos and classroom activities that have a distinct connection to Canada's northern sky.
THE SKINNY ON SOLAR MAXIMUM
This interview with Dean Pesnell of the Solar Dynamics Observatory (Goddard Space Flight Centre) discusses the recent predictions about the upcoming Solar Maximum, the peak of our star's 11-year sunspot cycle. Sunspots are the driving force behind the auroras we see in the Northwest Territories.
DURATION: 2:27
SOURCE: DISCOVERY SPACE
WEBSITE: YouTube
POSTED: January 1, 2009
About Solar Maximum
Scientists are predicting the strongest Solar Maximum in 50 years will arrive between 2010 and 2012, setting the stage for what should be the greatest northern lights spectacle of the new millennium. Every 11 years the Sun completes one cycle of sunspot activity. Like an enormous heartbeat, our star shifts from solar minimum to solar maximum, and back to solar minimum to complete one solar cycle.
counting sunspots, watching for solar flares and measuring the polarity of the solar magnetic field, which is known to reverse during the excitement of solar max.
Classroom Activities
The Canadian Space Agency and the Solar & Heliospheric Observatory present lessons and activities that allow students to explore the Sun from its deep core to the outer corona and the solar wind.
• Building and Using a Sundial Grade 6
• The Reasons For the Seasons Grade 6
• The Solar Cycle Grade 6
• SOHO Sunspot Cycle Lesson Plans Grades 6-12
Welcome to the New and Improved Astronomy North Website!
We Are Continuing to Work Behind the Scenes To Prepare for the
International Year of Astronomy in 2009! Watch For More Upgrades Later This Month!
