The Sun's magnetic poles reverse approximately every 11 years. This period is also known as the solar cycle.

Here's what happens:

* Solar Minimum: During a solar minimum, the Sun's magnetic field is weakest.

* Solar Maximum: As the cycle progresses, the Sun's magnetic field strengthens, reaching a peak during the solar maximum. This is when we see more sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections.

* Pole Reversal: Around the solar maximum, the Sun's magnetic poles begin to flip. The north pole becomes the south pole and vice versa.

* New Cycle: The cycle continues, starting with a new solar minimum.

It's important to note that this is an average period. The exact time between pole reversals can vary slightly, ranging from 9 to 14 years.