GEOMAGNETIC STORM WATCH: Earth's magnetic field is about to get hit by as many as three CMEs--the first on Oct. 9th, the second and third on Oct. 11th. The series of impacts could spark category G1 (Minor) to G3 (Strong) geomagnetic storms with perfect timing for aurora photographers. The nearly-new Moon will provide inky-dark skies throughout the forecast period. CME impact alerts: SMS Text
A SOLAR TSUNAMI: Sunspot 4549 erupted again on Oct. 8th, producing an M6.7-class solar flare. The blast also propelled a solar tsunami through the sun's stmosphere. It was a near-global event:
Above: A 195 angstrom difference movie from the GOES-19 Extreme UV Imager
A solar tsunami--formally known as a Moreton wave--is a giant, fast-moving wave of hot plasma and magnetic energy that ripples across the surface of the sun. The shock front is taller than Earth, moving faster than 1 million mph.
As this wave expanded over the face of the sun, a CME lifted off. It is expected to graze Earth on Oct. 11th, adding its energy to that of two CMEs ahead of it. Stay tuned for geomagnetic storms and auroras this weekend. Aurora alerts: SMS Text
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SHATTERED PLANETESIMAL METEORITE PENDANT: When meteorites land on Earth, they usually stay on Earth. This one went back to space. On Sept. 16, 2026, we flew this genuine iron meteorite pendant to the stratosphere onboard a cosmic ray research balloon:
You can have it for $278.95. Thought to be the remnant of a shattered planetesimal, the original meteorite crashed to Earth in northern Sweden where it was preserved in glacial ice. Jewelers mounted this polished spherical fragment in a sterling silver "planetary rings" frame.
You can tell it's real just by looking. The surface of the sphere is covered with Widmanstätten patterns--interlocking crystals of iron-nickel alloy that grew inside the core of an ancient planetesimal as it cooled over millions of years.
The students of Earth to Sky Calculus are selling space pendants to pay the helium bill for their high-altitude balloon program. Each one comes with a full-color greeting card showing the jewelry in flight.
Far Out Gifts: Earth to Sky Store
All sales support hands-on STEM education
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