August saw the highest number of sunspots since September 2001, surpassing forecasts and signalling a more intense solar maximum. The Space Weather Prediction Center had initially predicted a weaker solar cycle, but recent data shows sunspot numbers have far exceeded these predictions, indicating a robust peak in solar activity. This trend could lead to increased sola… science August saw the highest number of sunspots since September 2001, surpassing forecasts and signalling a more intense solar maximum. The Space Weather Prediction Center had initially predicted a weaker solar cycle, but recent data shows sunspot numbers have far exceeded these predictions, indicating a robust peak in solar activity. This trend could lead to increased sola…