As reported by Space.com, three separate studies suggest that our sun is entering a less active phase. We may be seeing significantly fewer sunspots for the next several decades. That could be very good news for space exploration, as a less active sun means fewer flares or solar storms, which can damage electronics and endanger astronauts.
On the other hand, periods of reduced solar activity have historically also been periods of significantly cooler weather, although I understand that the reasons for that are not well understood.
