Solar Maximum , Could Reveal Secrets of the , Sun.<br />'The Independent' reports that an upcoming period <br />of increased solar activity could help scientists <br />understand some lingering uncertainties about the Sun.<br />The imminent "solar maximum" means that <br />our star is currently spewing gamma rays, <br />the highest energy form of light.<br />Gamma ray numbers are far higher <br />than scientists ever expected. .<br />The intense stream of energetic solar emissions <br />offers scientists a better understanding of <br />gamma rays, including where they come from.<br />We have found results <br />that challenge our current <br />understanding of the Sun <br />and its environment, Elena Orlando, co-author of the study from the University of <br />Trieste, INFN, and Stanford University, via 'The Independent'.<br />We demonstrated a strong correlation of <br />the asymmetry in the solar gamma-ray <br />emission in coincidence with the solar <br />magnetic field flip, which has revealed <br />a possible link among solar astronomy, <br />particle physics, and plasma physics, Elena Orlando, co-author of the study from the University of <br />Trieste, INFN, and Stanford University, via 'The Independent'.<br />We demonstrated a strong correlation of <br />the asymmetry in the solar gamma-ray <br />emission in coincidence with the solar <br />magnetic field flip, which has revealed <br />a possible link among solar astronomy, <br />particle physics, and plasma physics, Elena Orlando, co-author of the study from the University of <br />Trieste, INFN, and Stanford University, via 'The Independent'.<br />Currently, leading theories include that <br />gamma rays are connected to solar flares <br />and coronal mass ejections or potentially linked <br />to changes in the Sun's magnetic configuration.<br />'The Independent' reports that a better <br />understanding could improve the physics <br />models used to predict solar activity. .<br />Those models are used to make <br />predictions that protect vital <br />instruments in orbit around the planet. .<br />Scientists have warned that increased solar <br />activity has the potential to cause significant <br />damage to Earth's technology and infrastructure. .<br />The team's findings were described in an article<br />published by 'The Astrophysical Journal.'