Become a Sunspot Detective with Zooniverse! Help researchers count sunspots in historical drawings of the Sun.

Citizen science project seeks volunteers to help analyze 19th century drawings of the Sun

Have you ever wanted to be a detective? Now you can, with the help of Zooniverse and the Sunspot Detectives project.

Launched today, Sunspot Detectives is a citizen science project that asks volunteers to help analyze over 15,000 drawings of the Sun made in the 19th century by Jesuit scientist Angelo Secchi and his collaborators. The goal of the project is to better understand how the Sun’s activity has changed over time.

Why study sunspots?

Sunspots are dark areas on the Sun’s surface that are caused by intense magnetic activity. They can be used to track the Sun’s 11-year activity cycle, as well as longer-term changes in its behavior.

By studying sunspots, scientists can learn more about how the Sun affects Earth’s climate and environment. For example, solar storms can disrupt satellite communications and power grids, and can even cause auroras to be seen at lower latitudes.

How can you help?

To participate in Sunspot Detectives, simply visit the project website and create an account. You will then be able to view and…