GEOMAGNETIC STORM WATCH: NOAA says that minor G1-class geomagnetic storms are likely on Feb 5-6 when a CME is expected to graze Earth's magnetic field. The CME was hurled into space by a powerful X8-class solar flare on Feb.1st. Even a glancing blow from such a CME can be potent, so don't be surprised if the storm is stronger than expected. CME impact alerts: SMS Text
GIANT SUNSPOT ALERT: The most active sunspot of Solar Cycle 25 is turning toward Earth. Eduardo Schaberger Poupeau sends this picture of AR4366 at high noon in Rafaela, Argentina:
Can't find it? Hint: It's the enormous dark spot (upper left) more than ten times wider than Earth.
"I captured this image of the sun on Feb. 2nd using my H-alpha telescope at a moment of intense solar activity," says Poupeau. "The main feature is sunspot AR 4366, a true solar flare factory, which has produced dozens of M-class flares and 5 X-class flares, including a powerful X8 event, all within a few days."
This sunspot is just getting started. It has an increasingly unstable 'delta-class' magnetic field, and it is rapidly adding new spots. More X-flares are likely in the days ahead, and they will be Earth directed. Stay tuned. Solar flare alerts: SMS Text
more images: from Frank J Melillo of Holtsville, NY; from Thomas Schutz of Benicia, California; from Johnny Horne of Stedman NC; from Pepe Manteca of Begues, Spain; from Ivar Hamberg of Nice, France
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A SPACE PENDENT FOR VALENTINE'S DAY: Are you looking for an unforgettable Valentine's Day gift? Consider the Always and Forever Pendent. The students of Earth to Sky Calculus launched it to the top of Earth's atmosphere onboard a cosmic ray research balloon:
It's yours for $279.95. Engraved with the words "I love you always and forever," this sterling silver pendant features a heart-shaped citrine crystal surrounded by a ring of glittering 5A cubic zirconia nuggets. It comes with a greeting card showing the jewelry in flight and telling the story of its journey to space.
Earth to Sky Valentine's 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. And, best of all, all sales support student science projects and STEM education.
Far Out Gifts: Earth to Sky Store
All sales support hands-on STEM education
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