Scientists have recorded the largest group of spots on the Sun in 2026.

The largest group of sunspots formed on the Sun in 2026. This was announced on June 28 at the Laboratory of Solar Astronomy at the Space Research Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences.

According to scientists, the active region number 4478 now extends from the back of the Sun to its visible part.

"At the moment, its area is almost 1,200 units (the exact value is 1,190)," the laboratory said in a Telegram channel message.

It is noted that the previous record in 2026 was a group of 4,366 spots recorded in February. It caused a powerful X8.1 class flare, and its maximum area reached 1,100 units.

At the same time, experts clarify that there is no noticeable solar activity in the region yet, but weak plasma clouds can be periodically ejected from it. According to scientists, one of these clouds may reach the Earth on June 30, and another on July 1.

Solar flares are classified by X—ray power into five classes - A, B, C, M and X. They can cause magnetic storms that affect the operation of energy systems, as well as the migration of animals and the expansion of auroral observation zones.

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The largest group of sunspots approaching the Earth in five months began to appear on June 26. The scientists specified that the area of the phenomenon was 825 square meters (one millionth of the area of the solar hemisphere). This indicator allows us to consider this active area as the second largest since the beginning of 2026.