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Hinode: Solar magnetic field reversing early and abnormally, implies solar maximum
The focus here is the sun observing Hinode (Solar-B) which carries 3 solar telescopes. (brief details), perhaps surprisingly in earth polar orbit 
yet this is sufficient for a permanent view of the sun except for occassional solar eclipse by the earth. A space based solar telescope removes the very serious problems caused by the earth’s atmosphere when attempting to measure the solar polar field strength, as has been discussed on the Talkshop from time to time.
This is one of the major reasons for the severe noise exhibited by the Wilcox observatory data as shown here.
Hinode evidence of North pole reversing now
Figure B, North pole showing reversal in progress, left 2008, right 2011
Figure C, South pole, no sign of change.
Michele Casati posted a link on the suggestions page to a press release by Hinode Science Center/NAOJ dated 19th April 2012 they state
” We here report the discovery that the average magnetic flux of the north polar region is rapidly and steadily decreasing during the period of 2008 and 2012 (Figure B). The reversal (from minus to plus polarity) is taking place in sequence from lower latitude to higher latitude. The average magnetic flux of the polar region soon becomes zero. The estimated completion of the reversal of the north polar region will take place in 1 months or so, about one year earlier than the nominal expected reversal time.
In striking contrast to the north polar situation, the magnetic flux of the south polar region has been very stable, and maintains the plus polarity (Figure C). These latest Hinode observations suggest that the global magnetic field of the Sun will become different from the normal bipolar configuration.”
Figure 1
If this is true it makes the wobble shown in the Wilcox data, figure 1 more significant.
I recall coming across a paper which suggests the sun was unipolar during the maunder minimum. They had unearthed previously unknown drawings of the sun showing there were sunspots, it was not as quiet as the usual historic record says.
I am trying to find the paper again, meanwhile here are some related items.
Solar Rotation in the 17–th century
A solar cycle lost in 1793–1800: Early sunspot observations resolve the old mystery
REVISITED SUNSPOT DATA: A NEW SCENARIO FOR THE ONSET OF THE MAUNDER MINIMUM
Posted by Tim Channon, co-moderator
Read more at Tallbloke Talkshop
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