GEOMAGNETIC STORM WATCH: A minor (G1-class) geomagnetic storm is possible on Dec. 23rd when a fast-moving stream of solar wind hits Earth's magnetic field. The gaseous material is flowing from a northern hole in the sun's atmosphere. High-latitude sky watchers should be alert for auroras when the solar wind arrives. Aurora alerts: SMS Text.
THE GREAT CONJUNCTION OF JUPITER AND SATURN: Want to see something that astronomers have been waiting 800 years to witness? Just step outside at sunset and look southwest. Jupiter and Saturn are having their finest conjunction since the Middle Ages--and they're bright. Bertrand Kulik sends this picture from Paris:
"On Dec. 20th, the planets were visible right beside the Eiffel Tower," says Kulik. "It was a magical view!"
At closest approach on Dec. 21st, the two planets will lie just 0.1 degrees apart. That’s so close, some people will perceive them as a single brilliant star. Viewed through binoculars or a small telescope, Saturn will appear as close to Jupiter as some of Jupiter’s moons.
Indeed, Michael Teoh of the Heng Ee Observatory in Penang, Malaysia, has captured just such a view:
"It was cloudy the whole afternoon until sunset, and then magic happened!" says teoh. "I'm really glad that I was able to witness and capture this moment, as I will be exactly 100 years old the next time the two gas giants get this close."
This is a once in a lifetime photo-op, so don't miss it. Click here for photo tips and browse the photo gallery to see history being made. Or, just look southwest at sunset: sky map.
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GIFTS FROM THE EDGE OF SPACE: Christmas is this week. Are you looking for a far-out gift? Check out the Earth to Sky Store. It's filled with unique items that have flown to the edge of space onboard cosmic ray research balloons. From now until Christmas, all gifts are 10% off:
Carried aloft by giant helium balloons, these unique gifts have flown above 99.7% of Earth's atmosphere, experiencing space-like blasts of cosmic rays, extreme cold, and a wild ride parachuting back to Earth after the balloon explodes. Even Amazon doesn't carry items this far out.
All items come with a greeting card showing the gifts in flight, and telling the story of their journey to the edge of space and back again. Don't forget to enter coupon code "SPACESANTA" at checkout for a 10% holiday discount!
Far Out Gifts: Earth to Sky Store
All sales support hands-on STEM education
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