The Sun is just now (finally) moving out of the ‘minimum’ phase for its 11-year sunspot cycle. Max is supposed be around 2011 or 2012. However, the cycle, at max, for the past 60 or so years (ie, during the increased warming phase) has had a remarkably high level of activity. I think it’s still up in the air, in terms of predictions, as to whether this next cycle (cycle 24) is going to be above normal or not.
Thanks for the info. I find this very interesting.