CHANCE OF FLARES: The sun has quieted this weekend with some minor decay in sunspot complex AR2993-94. Nevertheless, there is still a chance of flares: a 40% chance of M-flares and a 10% chance of X-flares on April 24th, according to NOAA. Any eruptions will be Earth directed. Solar flare alerts: SMS Text
MORNING PLANETS: This is a great week to wake up early and look at the planets. They're all lined up. This morning, Jeff Dai photographed the pre-dawn scene from the Yunnan province of China:
"The display shocked me--it was so beautiful!" says Dai. "I watched as Saturn, Mars, Venus and Jupiter rose one by one in the eastern sky. The dawn was so serene. I could see all of these celestial wonders reflected in the peaceful waters of Lake Nian."
The view is about to improve. Venus and Jupiter are converging for a tight conjunction on Saturday morning, April 30th. They will "appear to nearly collide into each other," according to NASA. "Due to the glare from both planets, some observers will see them merge into one very bright, spectacular glow!"
Between now and then, the crescent Moon will glide by Venus and Jupiter, forming a lovely triangle on Tuesday morning, April 26th, and especially Wednesday morning, April 27th. Set your alarm for dawn and enjoy the show.
Sky maps: April 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, May 1.
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SUNSPOTS AT SUNSET: Solar Cycle 25 is intensifying. Evidence may be found in the setting sun. David J. Kriegler sends this picture from Gulf Shores, Alabama:
"Sunspots AR2993, 94, 95 and 96 were all visible," says Kriegler. Four sunspots in a single sunset? That's definitely a sign of increasing solar activity.
A note of caution: Photographing the sun is dangerous. Even a brief glimpse of magnified sunlight can damage your eyes. The setting sun is often dimmed by low clouds or haze. It's tempting to look through the optical viewfinder. Don't! Instead, point your camera safely using its electronic viewscreen.
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MOTHER'S DAY IS MAY 8TH: Are you looking for an out-of-this world Mother's Day gift? Consider this: Every time the students of Earth to Sky Calculus launch a cosmic ray balloon, they include something extra in the payload--something Mom will love:
Every item in the Earth to Sky Store has flown to the edge of space and comes with a greeting card showing the item in flight. The interior of the card tells the story of the gift's journey from launch to landing. Mom-satisfaction guaranteed!
Mother's Day Special: Use coupon code "SPACEMOM" at checkout for a 10% discount. Offer valid from now until Mother's Day (May 8, 2022) .
Far Out Gifts: Earth to Sky Store
All sales support hands-on STEM education
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