WEEKEND AURORA WATCH: Minor G1-class geomagnetic storms, which began on Feb. 4th, could continue on Feb. 5th as Earth enters a stream of high-speed solar wind. The gaseous material is flowing from an equatorial hole in the sun's atmosphere. Arctic sky watchers should be alert for bright auroras this weekend. Geomagnetic storm alerts: SMS Text.
SUNSPOT SUNSET: Sunspot numbers are at their highest level in more than 5 years, and this is altering the sunset. Consider this photo taken by Eduardo Schaberger Poupeau of Rafaela, Argentina:
"What a dreamy sunset," he says. "The image brings together our rural landscape adorned by a pair of 'caranchos' (birds of prey) and a sun with many sunspots."
"At the bottom left we can see the sunspot group AR2936; at the top right there is AR2939; and a little below it appears AR2940 containing a half dozen smaller spots," points out Poupeau. Thank you, Solar Cycle 25.
Note: Be careful when photographing the sun. Even when the solar disk is hanging low and dimmed by clouds or haze, sunlight magnified by unfiltered optics can damage your eyes. Always point your camera safely using the electronic viewscreen or use a safe solar filter.
Realtime Space Weather Photo Gallery
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SHE SAID 'YES': Can a geomagnetic storm change your life? Ask this couple in Abisko, Sweden:
"Last night was something special!" says Chad Blakley of Lights over Lapland. "Not only did we see some of the most impressive auroras in recent memory, but also we had the pleasure of watching a happy couple get engaged under the lights."
Needless to say, the answer was "yes."
Realtime Aurora Photo Gallery
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VALENTINE'S GIFTS FROM THE EDGE OF SPACE: Does your sweetheart love space? Their perfect Valentine's gift may be in the Earth to Sky Store. All items in the store have flown to the edge of space on board cosmic ray research balloons. From now until Feb. 14th, everything is 10% off:
Each purchase comes with a greeting card showing the item in flight and telling the story of its journey to the stratosphere and back again. Don't forget to enter the coupon code "ILOVESPACE" for your Valentine's discount!
Far Out Gifts: Earth to Sky Store
All sales support hands-on STEM education