Something unexpected is happening on the Sun, Nasa says:

Nothing.

While all predictions suggest that 2013 should mark the high point of solar activity over a regular 11-year sunspot cycle - the so-called 'Solar Max' - our star is actually in a remarkably quiet mood.

Nasa said that since the start of the year there has been a pronounced lack of major solar flares and other activity which should be seen at this point in the Sun's cycle.

Above: a picture released by Nasa illustrating low solar activity

Nasa said that "sunspot numbers are well below their values from 2011, and strong solar flares have been infrequent."

It went on:

However, there is no reason to panic. Nasa explains in a lengthy and interesting post that the solar cycle is very complex, and can have multiple peaks and troughs over time. It's worth a read if you're interested or terrified.

Meanwhile solar flares are still occurring - one forced the Mars rover Curiosity into safe mode earlier this week - and the current lull is described as a "quiet interlude" rather than a potential source of humanity's ultimate downfall.

Excerpt from:

Nasa : 'Something Is Wrong With The Sun'