The march of science is slow. It must be to remain methodical. But now and then, it gets a shot in the arm via a burst of collaboration between scientists from diverse fields. The energy and focus this produces have significant long-term benefits. Such an event occurred around an important year for science, 2007, and what happened laid the foundation for a broader growth in science’s reach.
International Heliophysical Year 2007, also known as IHY 2007, was an internationally coordinated effort to promote and advance research in heliophysics – the study of the Sun and its effects on the Solar System and beyond. The year was not a random choice; it coincided with a period of heightened solar activity known as solar maximum.
