the solar cycle

Inquiry-based activity guide for secondary school teachers to help students investigate the solar cycle through real satellite images of the Sun. After completing this activity, students will be able to:​

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1. Explain why it’s useful to observe astronomical objects at multiple wavelengths, including those not visible to the eye.

2. Distinguish between true and false colour images.

3. Distinguish between pictures of the Sun taken in visible and ultraviolet light.

4. Relate the seemingly chaotic behaviour on the Sun’s surface to the long-term pattern of solar activity.

5. Use a web-based tool to access real astronomical observations.

6. Correlate solar activity with terrestrial phenomena, such as auroras.