Solar Activity
Solar activity has been increasing in recent months as the Sun moves through its current activity cycle.
February 2023
The photo below shows the solar disk photographed in the early afternoon of February 12, 2023, from my backyard in Colorado, USA.
In this image, five prominent sunspot groups can be clearly identified.
Photo Details
Solar surface (February 12, 2023)
Camera: Panasonic DMC-GM5 (Micro Four Thirds)
Lens: Tokina SZX 400mm (F8)
ISO: 200
Shutter speed: 1/1000
Filter: ND100000
January 2023
In contrast, a solar image taken on January 23, 2023 showed only one sunspot group on the solar surface.
(This January image appears slightly underexposed.)
The Increasing Trend in Sunspot Activity
The Sun follows an approximately 11-year solar activity cycle.
We are currently in Solar Cycle 25, which is expected to reach its solar maximum around 2025.
As the cycle progresses, it is likely that more sunspots and sunspot groups will become visible in the months and years ahead.
Camera and Exposure Information
The February solar image was captured using the following setup:
Camera: Panasonic DMC-GM5 (Micro Four Thirds)
Lens: Tokina SZX 400mm (F8)
ISO: 200
Shutter speed: 1/1000
Filter: ND100000
An ND100000 solar filter reduces sunlight to safe levels for photography.
Such filters are also commonly used for photographing partial solar eclipses (but must be removed during totality).
Equipment Used for Solar Photography
For this image, I used a high-density neutral density (ND) filter to safely photograph the Sun.
A filter such as the ICE 77mm ND100000 can reduce sunlight by approximately 16.5 stops, making it possible to capture sunspots with a telephoto lens.
⚠️ Important: Only use filters specifically designed for direct solar viewing or photography.
Improper filters can cause permanent eye and camera damage.
NOAA Solar Data and References
Solar Surface Images
Official solar imagery can be viewed through the National Solar Observatory.
The image from February 12, 2023 corresponds to the date discussed in this article.
Solar Disk Sketches
Solar disk sketches and sunspot maps are available from NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center.
The sketch for February 12, 2023 can be found in NOAA’s solar synoptic maps.
Safe Solar Viewing
When observing the Sun visually (not through a camera), certified solar viewing filters are essential.
I personally use solar binoculars like the Celestron EclipSmart Solar Binoculars when observing solar eclipses or large sunspot groups.
These binoculars use ISO-certified solar filters designed for safe direct solar viewing.
Celestron Solar Binocular
I personally bring these binoculars with me when observing solar eclipses.
