Tag Archives: Spectacular

Tonight’s Meteor Shower: A Guide to Enjoying the Spectacular Perseid Meteor Show of 2025

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The Perseid meteor shower is set to be one of the most prominent displays of 2025, providing a fantastic opportunity to gaze at the night sky.

These meteor showers are famous for their high meteor velocities, reaching up to 100 per hour under ideal conditions.

Moreover, if you wake up early to witness the meteor shower in the pre-dawn hours, you may catch another astronomical sight. On August 13th, Jupiter and Venus, the two brightest objects in the night sky after the moon, will make their closest approach of the year.

This guide has everything you need to enjoy the 2025 Perseid meteor shower to the fullest.

When will the Perseid meteor shower occur in 2025?

The Perseids will be active from July 17th to August 24th, peaking on the evening of August 12th.

This period will see the highest number of meteors, but if clouds or timing prevent you from witnessing the peak, you can still enjoy a good show between August 9th and 15th.

The best viewing times for the Perseids are from midnight until about an hour before dawn. However, even in the late evening, you might still spot a few meteors.

The Zenital Hourly Rate (ZHR) for the Perseids is estimated at 100-150 meteors per hour, but that doesn’t guarantee a large number of visible shooting stars.

“The ZHR represents the expected rate under ideal conditions, which are seldom met,” explains Pete Lawrence, an expert astronomer and presenter for Night Sky.

“Consequently, the actual number of visible meteors, or the visual hourly rate, is often lower. Nevertheless, a high ZHR indicates that good activity is possible.”

Where is the best place to view the Perseid meteor shower?

Meteors can appear anywhere in the sky, so your best bet is to find a clear area with as wide a view as possible.

While following the trails of the Perseid meteors, you’ll notice they all originate from the same point known as the Radiant in the constellation Perseus.

It’s advisable not to look directly at the Radiant; instead, gaze away from it to catch meteors with their long tails.

Finding Perseus is worthwhile as the constellation rises just as the sun sets and remains visible throughout the night in the northern sky.

The easiest way to locate it is to look for the W-shaped constellation Cassiopeia, which consists of prominent stars positioned higher in the sky; Perseus lies just below it.

What is the ideal location for observing meteor showers?

The prime spot to observe the 2025 Perseid meteor shower is a dark area with an unobstructed view of the sky.

Light pollution can wash out dim meteors, so it’s best to escape the urban sprawl and find a truly dark site. Ensure the location is safe and secure.

If you can’t get far, don’t fret; simply find a sheltered spot free from direct lighting. This could be your backyard or a local park where you can block out harsh streetlights.

Whenever possible, escape to a Dark Sky Site – Credit: Getty Images

How can I best view the Meteor Shower?

The optimal way to experience the meteor shower is to lie back and take in as much sky as possible.

Avoid using telescopes or binoculars as they limit your view; it’s best to watch with your own eyes.

Once you’re settled, allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness. This process takes about 30 minutes, although you’ll start noticing changes before that.

Be cautious — a single bright light can ruin your night vision, so ensure security lights are off and switch your phone to red light mode.

Does the moon affect visibility?

One uncontrollable form of light pollution is the moon.

The moon will be waxing in the days leading up to the August 9th peak of the 2025 Perseid meteor shower. On peak night, it will be about 88% illuminated and prominent throughout the night.

If possible, position yourself so that buildings or trees block the moon’s glare.

The moon rises in the east and ascends higher into the sky as the night progresses.

Top tips for enjoying the Perseid Meteor Shower

  • Choose a dark location. Whether it’s a designated dark sky area or a secluded part of your backyard, find a spot far from artificial light while enjoying unobstructed views of the sky.
  • Use red light on your phone. Red lights help preserve your night vision. Some phones can be set to red light mode, while others may need an app.
  • Dress warmly. Even in August, sitting still can get chilly at night. Layers will help you accommodate changing temperatures.
  • Make yourself comfortable. Staring at the sky can strain your neck. A sun lounger could support your head. Alternatively, lying on the ground with a blanket can provide cushioning and warmth.
  • Give your eyes time to adjust to the darkness. This takes about 20-30 minutes; the longer you wait, the more meteors you’ll likely see.

What triggers the Perseid meteor shower?

“A meteor shower occurs when Earth passes through sparse dust particles scattered along a comet’s orbit,” notes Lawrence.

In the case of the Perseids, the comet is 109P/Swift-Tuttle, which completes an orbit around the solar system every 133 years, last passing in 1995.

“The density of dust is greatest in the center of the stream and thins out in the outer regions,” adds Lawrence.

The dust grains, about the size of sand particles, travel through Earth’s atmosphere at an astonishing speed of approximately 215,000 km/h (130,000 mph).

This rapid motion causes the air to heat up to extreme temperatures, resulting in brilliant streaks of light across the sky.

The peaks of meteor showers occur when Earth traverses the densest parts of the dust stream.

“Earth will start to intersect with the broad dust stream of 109P/Swift-Tuttle around July 14th and continue through September 1st,” says Lawrence.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Fireball Captures Spectacular Meteor Shower Lighting Up the Southeastern US Sky

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A fireball was spotted soaring through the sky in the southeastern United States on Thursday afternoon, coinciding with reports of a meteor shower in the region, according to officials.

A representative from Forsyth County Emergency Management in Georgia stated that the meteor shower, validated by the National Weather Service, was still visible hours after the initial sighting.

The representative noted that there have been no reports of impacts or injuries, and monitoring of the showers is ongoing.

Earlier, the National Weather Service office in Charleston indicated that just before noon, there were “numerous reports of fireballs” across the area.

“While it’s not confirmed, satellite-based lightning detection indicated markings in the clear sky above the NC/VA border in Gasbury, Virginia,” reported between 11:51 am and 11:56 am the weather service noted at the time.

A video circulating on social media displays a fireball descending into a wooded area in South Carolina.

Kathryn Far posted a dashcam video taken while driving south on Interstate 85 toward Anderson, South Carolina, around 12:25 pm.

A video shared on social media shows a fireball being shot down into a wooded area of ​​South Carolina.
Kathryn Rose Fur via Facebook

“It’s not something you witness every day.” She mentioned on Facebook.

Another perspective from Andrew Colley Road in Lexington, South Carolina depicted suspected meteor stones blazing bright white with an orange flame tail before vanishing into a wooded area.

The Newton County Sheriff’s Office in Georgia reported that the weather department has informed them that the fireball is likely a meteor.

“Currently, there is no information on where the meteor may have landed.” The sheriff’s office stated, noting that fireballs have been reported by residents in Covington and nearby areas.


Marlene Lenthang

Marlene Lenthang is a news reporter for NBC News Digital.

Rebecca Cohen I contributed.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

Ancient Fireballs: The Lyrids Meteor Shower Tonight – Don’t Miss Out on the Spectacular Display!

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Every April, the Lilid Meteor Shower returns to our sky, offering the chance to get a glimpse of the fireballs across the sky.

Though not the most prolific meteor exhibit of the year, Lilid is a welcome treat for Stargazer.

All you need to know about Lilid in 2025 is when to look up, what to expect, how to get the best views and more.

When is Lyrid Meteor Shower 2025?

Lilid will be active from April 15th to 25th, 2025, and peak activity is expected on the evening of April 22nd early on April 23rd.

Your best bet is to still go out before dawn on April 23rd. The radiation point (the part of the sky where the meteor appears to come from) is the best.

Where to see Lilid

Lilids are emitted from the constellation Lyra, located near the bright star Vega, one of the easiest stars in the Northern Hemisphere.

Look east or northeast after midnight and let your eyes clean the sky. Meteors may appear in any direction rather than near meteors.

No telescopes or binoculars are required. In fact, it’s better to see the meteor shower with the naked eye and be able to take in as many sky as possible.

read more:

  • Can you hear the meteor?
  • Meteors, Asteroids, Comets: What’s the difference?
  • How can you tell that a metstone comes from a particular planet?

How many meteors are there?

Under a dark moonless sky, Lilids usually produce 10-15 meteors per hour, but sudden bursts can produce up to 100.

Lilid is known for being quick and sometimes bright, with strange fireballs thrown in properly.

The month around this time will pass the third quarter, so if it rises it will be very bright. Thankfully, this won’t last until around 4am (US and UK). This means you’ll get unobstructed meteor monitoring for hours.

Laila’s constellation. Vega is a bright star in the top right. – Getty

What causes the Lyrid Meteor Shower?

The Lyrid meteor is caused by the Earth passing through the traces of debris left by Comet Thatcher. It finally reached the approach closest to the sun in 1861, so it takes a long time to wait until our path comes again (c. 2276).

When comet dust and rock fragments collide at high speed in the atmosphere (approximately 50 km/s), they burn out and create stripes of light seen from the ground.

Lilid is actually one of the oldest recorded meteor showers. Chinese astronomers observed them over two to six hundred years ago.

Tips for viewing lyrids

Catching a meteor shower is not complicated, but some wise strategies can make all the difference.

  • Find a dark place It’s quite far from the city lights – less light pollution, the better.
  • Give me time to adjust my eyes In the darkness. It can take 20-30 minutes to see the sky at its best.
  • Wear warm clothesEven in spring. The temperature in the early morning can be chilly.
  • Lie down It allows you to comfortably scan the sky on a blanket or reclining chair.
  • be patient – Meteors have bursts and may take some time to catch good ones.

If you’re having trouble finding the sky you need, Technology helps. “Star Map apps like Sky Guide, Star Walk 2, and Stellarium will help you find Sky Vega and Lyra using your phone.” Dr. Sham Balajia researcher in space particle physics and cosmology at King’s College London.

“Many apps use augmented reality, so just point your phone in the sky and you’ll see where to look.”

Is this the best meteor shower of the year?

Not at all – that title is usually sent to Persade in August or Geminid in December.

However, Lilid is the first decent meteor shower for Northern Hemisphere observers, and could be surprisingly dramatic.

Additionally, for the UK people, they arrive during school holidays. So, if the sky is clear, it’s the perfect excuse to make a late family stargaze.

read more:

  • Can you hear the meteor?
  • Meteors, Asteroids, Comets: What’s the difference?
  • How can you tell that a metstone comes from a particular planet?

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Hubble’s Spectacular Images of NGC 5530

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NASA has released a beautiful new image snapped by the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope on the “flocculent” Spiral Galaxy NGC 5530.

This Hubble image shows the NGC 5530, a spiral galaxy about 40 million light years away in the constellation of Lupus. Image credits: NASA/ESA/Hubble/D. Thilker.

NGC 5530 It is about 40 million light years away from the constellation of Lupus.

Also known as the IRAS 14152-4309 or ESO-LV 272-0030, this Galaxy has a diameter of approximately 60,000 light years.

First discovered by British astronomer John Herschel on April 7, 1837, the NGC 5530 is a key member of the NGC 5643 Galaxy Group.

“NGC 5530 is classified as a “coheterogeneous” spiral. This means that the spiral arm is patchy and obscure,” the statement said.

“Some galaxies have very bright centers that host ultra-high Massive black holes of feasts, but the bright source near the centre of NGC 5530 is not an active black hole, but a star
within our own galaxy, which is only 10,000 light years from Earth.”

“This chance alignment gives the star the appearance of the dense mind of the NGC 5530.”

2007, a labeled supernova event SN 2007it It occurred in this galaxy.

“If you had pointed to a backyard telescope on the NGC 5530 on the evening of September 13, 2007, you would have seen another bright spot of light adorned the galaxy,” the astronomer said.

“That night, Australian amateur astronomer Robert Evans discovered a supernova named SN 2007it by comparing the appearance of the NGC 5530 with a reference photograph of the galaxy from a telescope.”

“It’s worth noting that even one supernova can be discovered using this painstaking method, but Evans has actually discovered over 40 supernovaes like this.”

“This particular discovery was truly a coincidence. It is possible that light from the supernova completed its 40 million year journey to Earth a few days before the explosion was discovered.”

The color image of the NGC 5530 is Hubble Wide Field Camera 3 (WFC3) UV, near-infrared, and optical parts of the spectrum.

The image is based on data obtained through five filters. Colors are attributed to assigning different hue to each monochromatic image associated with an individual filter.

Source: www.sci.news

A Step-by-Step Guide to Watching the Spectacular Lunar Finale of 2024

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This year, we have been treated to various stunning celestial events by the moon, and now the grand finale is approaching with the last supermoon of 2024 known as the Beaver Moon.

But what exactly is a supermoon? How can you witness its beauty at its peak? And why is it called the Beaver Moon? Whether you plan to observe it from your backyard or venture to a remote location for clearer skies, here is everything you need to know to make the most of this year’s final significant lunar event.

When will the Beaver Moon be visible in 2024?

The UK, US, and the rest of the world will witness the full Beaver Supermoon on November 15, 2024. Following this date, the moon will appear full for several consecutive nights.

“A full moon occurs when the moon is directly opposite the sun in the sky at a precise moment down to the second,” explains Dr. Darren Baskill, an astronomer and astrophotographer from the University of Sussex.

“To the naked eye, the moon appears full or nearly full for two to three days from the exact moment of the full moon.”

In the UK, the moon will rise around 3:30 pm local time. In Los Angeles, it will rise at 3:30 PM local time, and in New York, it will be approximately 4:29 PM ET.

Fun fact: The moon is slowly moving away from Earth at a rate of 3.8 cm every year. – Photo credit: Getty

“For the most spectacular views, try capturing photographs just after sunset or just before sunrise. This is when the moon appears largest and most dramatic against the horizon,” said Shyam Balaji, a researcher in astronomical particle physics and cosmology from King’s College, London.

Why is it called the Beaver Moon?

The supermoon in November is named after the beaver as beavers are often observed during this period.

Leading up to winter, beavers prepare for the cold months and build food storage in case their ponds freeze over.

What causes a supermoon?

During a supermoon, the moon’s surface appears 7 percent larger (and 15 percent brighter) in the sky compared to an average full moon. This is because the moon is closer to Earth than usual (approximately 363,700 km or 226,000 miles away).

Due to the moon’s elliptical orbit around Earth, there is a point where the moon naturally approaches Earth (perigee). Conversely, there is a point (apogee) where the moon moves away from us. When a full moon coincides with perigee, a supermoon occurs. The timing of the full moon allows for multiple supermoons in a row.

This composite image shows the clear difference in size between supermoons and micromoons © Peter Lawrence

This discrepancy in cycles allows for repeated occurrences of supermoons. The moon’s elliptical orbit gradually changes alignments, resulting in multiple supermoons in succession.

“Gravitational forces from Earth, the sun, and other planets influence the moon’s orbit, leading to these fluctuations and the impressive phenomenon of supermoons,” explained Balaji.

Specifically, a supermoon requires the moon to complete a lunar cycle and be at its closest point to Earth in its orbit.

A supermoon occurs when the moon is closest to Earth, appearing larger and brighter in the sky. In contrast, a micromoon occurs when the moon is at its furthest away, making it appear smaller and darker. – Photo credit: Getty

Where is the best place to see the Beaver Supermoon?

To get the best views, escape the city lights and head to areas with minimal light pollution. For a truly remarkable experience, visit the coast and observe how the supermoon affects tides.

“When the moon is at its closest point to Earth (perigee) and is full, the gravitational pull on Earth’s oceans is stronger,” Balaji noted.

“Expect to witness more significant tidal fluctuations, resulting in higher high tides and lower low tides than usual.”

Read more:

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

What caused the spectacular flop of Sony’s big-budget hero shooter ‘Concorde’? | Games

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aShortly after posting Pushing Buttons last week, big gaming news broke: Sony was pulling the plug on hero shooter Concord just two weeks after launch, citing reasons that no one was playing it. Refunds were being offered to everyone who purchased it on PlayStation 5 and PC, leaving the game’s future uncertain.

It’s a brutal series of events. Sony acquired Firewalk Studios, the makers of Concorde, in 2023. Concorde was an expensive game that was in development for eight years, with a custom cinematic and a long-term plan that cost over $100 million to develop. Estimates suggest that fewer than 25,000 copies were sold in the first two weeks of release. This is shocking compared to other bad news for developers and studios this year.

Many It is written The question remains as to why Concorde was such a huge flop. As Keith Stewart pointed out in his review of the game, it entered a crowded genre of hero shooters, where many players already had favorites (Overwatch, Valorant, Apex Legends, etc.). Sony’s marketing for the game also seemed to flop, with very few people knowing about Concorde before it came out (I almost didn’t, but it’s my job to know about these things). Criticism was also leveled at the characters and design, which were generic and lacked any particularly interesting gameplay ideas.

Concord’s failure is emblematic of an existential problem in modern game development: Games are expensive and take so long to make that moment they can be missed years before a game is released. This makes publishers risk-averse, but simply trying to recreate something popular means it will be outdated by the time it’s finished.


I don’t want to play a game that takes years to play…Black Myth: Wukong. Photo: undefined/Game Science

Concord isn’t the first high-profile multiplayer flop of the year. Warner Bros.’ Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League also disappointed publishers with poor sales and disappointed players by shoehorning a potentially fun game into a live-service multiplayer model. Sega’s Foamstars went completely unnoticed. And let’s not forget Sega’s live-service shooter Hyenas. Cancelled This was just a few months before the scheduled release.

My sense is that people just don’t have time to play games that last forever anymore. Destiny, one of the first of the current generation of permanent live-service games aimed at keeping players playing for years, celebrated its 10th anniversary this week. The game has become part of the lives and habits of millions of people. Overwatch, Fortnite, and even the decades-old World of Warcraft dominate in their genres. What will it take to get these players to abandon the game for a new one or add a new one to their spare time? And with these types of games, people aren’t just abandoning the game, they’re abandoning their friends.

The proliferation of live service games reminds me of the time in the 2000s when nearly every publisher was trying to make a massively multiplayer online game like World of Warcraft. Every day we got a press release saying someone had secured millions of dollars in funding for a new Warcraft killer. Some of the resulting games were good (Guild Wars, to name one), but most were only moderately successful at best. Online games are Success isn’t easy. It never was.

It’s surprising that this game is coming out so soon after the sales surge of Black Myth: Wukong, a single-player only game. As I wrote last week, many factors contributed to Wukong’s success, but still, there is a huge demand for this game, and by extension, single-player games in general. Personally, I don’t want a game that takes years to play. I want a game that wants to say something, to convey an experience, and that eventually ends. Games where the artistry is reflected in the game. in front That business model.

This is partly a matter of preference. There’s clearly a huge market for live-service multiplayer games; it’s just that most people are already playing them. There’s no way there’s an untapped market for millions of players who crave hero shooters and battle royale games but haven’t yet found the right fit. It’s time for publishers to try something new instead.

What to Play


It’s also great for kids… Photography: Good Feel Co.

My family is still crazy about Astro Bot. My youngest son wakes me up every morning telling me about his favorite power-up (his favorite is the “Frog Punch”). But I wanted a break, so I took a long train ride recently. Bakel It’s a Japanese-style action platform game in the vein of the forgotten 1990s series Ganbare Goemon, which means absolutely nothing to 98% of people – it means defeating beautifully animated enemies. Yokai Use your drumstick to run through a world of manga-style depictions of Japanese towns and landscapes.

The difficulty level is clearly geared towards kids, so I barely had any trouble playing through the first few levels, but it’s still a welcome time-warp platformer that reminded me of the screenshots of similar Japanese games I used to pore over in Nintendo magazines back in the ’90s.

Available: PC, Nintendo Switch
Estimated play time: 10 hr

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What to Read


An eternal conversation…Destiny 2. Photo: Activision

  • In more positive news for Sony, the long-awaited PS5 Pro It’s finally been announced, and for an extra £200 on top of the current system price you get an enhanced tech spec, a 2TB solid-state drive and more.

  • As mentioned above, Bungie’s space opera shooter destiny It turns 10 this week, and as Christian Donlan writes in his anniversary essay, the game is about everytime There’s something to be said for this, and it’s not just one of the first ever-lasting games, it’s an ever-lasting conversation.

  • The Mystery of Rubber Keysa new film about the development of ZX Spectrumwill be released early next month.

What to click on

Question Block


Baldur’s Gate 3 is best played on PC. Photo: Larian Studios

leader Maisie Question of the week:

After years of enjoying gaming on the Switch, I decided to broaden my horizons and bought a PS4 and a gaming laptop. The PS4 is great, but I’m having trouble getting Steam games to start. Working at a desk is different than lounging on the couch next to your husband. Do you have any tips for making PC gaming more fun and less like work?

I feel the exact same way about PC gaming. I hate sitting at a desk playing games. As a teenager I would play endless hours of Rollercoaster Tycoon, The Sims, and Age of Empires II after school, but now I sit at a desk all day. Not only is it the last thing I want to do after work, it’s also bad for my health. But I’ve been playing a lot of PC games lately, because I can play most games with a Bluetooth-enabled controller by connecting it to my TV with an HDMI cable.
PS4 Controller You can use any Xbox controller. I Xbox One Pad I use it for PC gaming now, but for many years I used an old, cheap, second-hand wired Xbox 360 one. Steam Deck It’s a game changer, so I highly recommend saving up and buying one.

For PC-exclusive games, that might seem like a worthwhile investment — almost all games are cross-platform these days — but… Baldur’s Gate 3 It really is great to play on PC, and if playing on PC doesn’t make you a fan of the keyboard and mouse, then nothing will.

If you have a question for Question Block, or anything else you’d like to say about the newsletter, please click “Reply” or email us at pushingbuttons@theguardian.com.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Summer Northern Lights Viewing Guide: How to Witness the Spectacular Aurora Tonight

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Occasionally, you may have the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights from your home in the UK or US. Tonight (Wednesday, July 24) presents a moderate chance of seeing these mesmerizing lights.

Typically, the Northern Lights are only visible in countries like Canada, Russia, and Sweden, but they have been spotted from as far as Penzance in Cornwall earlier this year.

While it’s rare for the lights to reach Cornwall, seeing the Northern Lights from the UK is not uncommon, although it requires a severe geomagnetic storm, which is a rare occurrence.

When can I see the Aurora tonight?

The Space Weather Forecast suggests that a solar storm may hit the Earth this week, potentially making the Northern Lights visible in parts of the UK on Wednesday, July 24.

Unfortunately, the Northern Lights can only be seen in certain parts of the UK, such as the north of England and Northern Ireland.

In the United States, it may be visible across several northern and upper Midwestern states from New York to Idaho.

However, due to the season, the window for viewing the Northern Lights is limited.

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How to increase your chances of seeing the Aurora

To enhance your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights, it is advisable to move away from urban areas with clear skies and minimal light pollution.

Locate a north-facing shoreline for the best viewing experience with fewer obstructions and less light pollution.

What Causes the Northern Lights?

The Aurora Borealis occurs when high-energy particles from the Sun collide with lower-energy particles in the Earth’s atmosphere.

Geomagnetic storms can push the Aurora further south, making them visible in regions where they are not usually seen.

These storms are more likely to occur during the waning stages of a solar cycle, when coronal holes generate high-speed solar wind that disrupts Earth’s magnetic field.

Why do the auroras have different colors?

The color of the Northern Lights can vary based on the atoms in Earth’s atmosphere reacting with the Sun’s energy.

Green auroras are produced by high-altitude oxygen atoms, while blue, yellow, or red auroras indicate lower-altitude oxygen or nitrogen atoms colliding with solar particles.

What does “Aurora” mean?

The term “Aurora Borealis” roughly translates to “North Wind Dawn” and is a nickname for the Northern Lights. Boreas is the god of the north wind in ancient Greek mythology.

The Southern Lights are also known as “Aurora Australis”, translating to “southern wind dawn”. These lights can be influenced by geomagnetic storms and have been seen in locations like New Zealand and Australia.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

2024 Perseid Meteor Shower: A Guide to Witnessing the Spectacular Annual Event

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2023 Perseid meteor shower observed in Chinese grasslands

Cynthia Lee/Alamy

The Perseid meteor shower is one of the best opportunities to see hundreds of shooting stars, and this year it will peak around August 12 and 13. The shower is expected to last from mid-July until the end of August, but the most meteors will be visible during the dawn hours near the peak.

What is the Perseid meteor shower?

Meteor showers occur when the Earth passes dust and debris drifting behind a comet. These tiny particles of debris slam into the atmosphere at incredible speeds, and friction with the atmospheric particles causes the dust to heat up and burn up, leaving only a flash of light in the air. This moving flash is called a shooting star or meteor.

The Perseid meteor shower is caused by the comet Swift-Tuttle, which orbits the Sun every 133 years. Once a year, Earth passes through its debris trail, lighting up the sky with meteors.

When should you view the Perseid meteors?

The best days to view the Perseid meteor shower are within a few days of its peak – outside of that period you may see some, but they won’t be as impressive.

Meteors can be seen at any time of the night, but a bright moon can make them harder to spot. This year, a half moon will be visible at the peak, so the best time to look for meteors is midnight after the moon has set. This is true for observers around the world, but the best views of the Perseid meteor shower will be in the Northern Hemisphere due to the orientation of the Earth relative to the comet’s debris trail.

How many meteors can we see this year?

Typically, the Perseids emit between 50 and 100 meteors per hour during the peak of the meteor shower. They can also produce fireballs, which are bright meteors that are created when a large chunk of a comet impacts Earth’s atmosphere. The number of meteors visible from a particular location depends on the level of light pollution, so getting away from city lights is essential if you want to see as many meteors as possible.

How do you observe the Perseid meteor shower?

The best way to observe the meteor shower is to be in as dark a place as possible with as much sky as possible visible. The Perseid meteors appear to streak towards the constellation Perseus, but they will appear all over the sky. It may take up to 30 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Don’t be discouraged if you can’t see anything at first. To allow your eyes to adjust, look at the sky as much as possible without looking at street lights, cell phones or even the moon. When you see a tiny point of light streaking across the sky for a few seconds or less, that’s the Perseid meteor shower.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

How to Watch the Lyrid Meteor Shower in 2024: Witness the Spectacular Fireballs Tonight

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The Lyrids, the first major meteor shower of the year, will be gracing us with fireballs tonight if luck is on our side.

Although this year’s conditions are not ideal due to the peak of the meteor shower coinciding with a full moon, the Lyrid meteor shower still has the potential to produce fireballs, similar to the more famous Perseid meteor shower (mid-July to August).

One of the oldest known meteor showers, with observations dating back over 2,700 years, the Lyrids were first reported by Chinese astronomers who observed the constellation Lyra. The sky experienced significant meteoric activity in 687 BC, 1803, and 1833.

To increase your chances of spotting the Lyrid meteor shower, understand what causes it, and know where to look, this guide provides valuable insights.

If unfavorable weather affects your viewing experience this year, consider checking out our astrophotography guide to capture stunning moon photos.

When will the Lyrid meteor shower be visible in 2024?

The peak time to witness the Lyrid meteor shower in 2024 is Monday night (April 22-23) in the UK and US regions. However, the nearly full moon on the night of April 23-24 will reduce visibility. Ideal viewing conditions are in the hours before dawn.

The Lyrid meteor shower will be visible from April 14, 2024, extending until April 30, following a yearly recurrence pattern.

Where to look to find Lyrid

The Lyra radiant, where meteors seem to originate, is situated in the Lyra constellation.

During the shower’s peak, the Lyra radiant ascends higher as the night progresses, enhancing the chance of spotting shooting stars and ensuring they don’t disappear beneath the horizon. Look for meteors about two-thirds up in the sky at a 60-degree altitude and a short distance from the radiant. Enhanced visibility can be achieved by including more sky in your field of view.

Lyra is a compact constellation nestled between the Summer Triangle and Hercules constellations, featuring the distinctive star Vega as part of its makeup.

Efficient star hopping techniques can aid in locating Lyra.

  1. First, identify the summer triangle asterism that includes Vega from the Lyra constellation, Altair from Aquila, and Deneb from Cygnus. This triangle becomes prominent in the April evening sky.
  2. Spot Vega: As the brightest star in Lyra, Vega acts as a marker for locating the constellation being sought. Its piercing brightness makes Vega easily identifiable.
  3. Follow the Lyra star pattern: Once Vega is found, identify the parallelogram shape forming the body of Lyra with Vega as one of its corners. Imagination can help visualize the rest of the constellation resembling a small harp or lyre.

If all else fails, using astronomy apps on your phone with a red light filter can be beneficial in identifying celestial objects.

How visible will Lyra be?

The almost full moon during the peak of the Lyrid meteor shower on April 22-23 poses a visibility challenge. Moon glare diminishes the visibility of meteors, stars, planets, and constellations. Dark adaptation of eyes is hindered by excessive moonlight, necessitating around 10-20 minutes for optimal vision adjustment.

Despite the lunar interference, spotting brighter meteors, including fireballs, remains a possibility during this year’s Lyrid meteor shower.

How many meteors can we actually see?

Under optimal conditions with minimal light pollution and close to 18 meteors per hour, meteor visibility varies annually, with an average of 10 to 20 sightings. However, this year’s bright moon will significantly reduce the number of visible meteors to around three to four per hour.

Dr. Darren Baskill, an astrophysicist from the University of Sussex, explains that the Perseid shower in mid-August, without moonlight interference, offers a meteor every five minutes in urban areas and up to one meteor per minute in dark environments.

What causes the Lyrid meteor shower?

Meteor showers occur as Earth crosses paths with debris left behind by comets and asteroids. As this debris orbits the sun, Earth’s orbit intersects, resulting in the combustion of tiny particles in the atmosphere, creating meteoric streaks.

Most meteor-producing particles are as small as grains of sand, but larger fragments can produce fireballs. The “peak” of a meteor shower denotes the densest part of the stream, resulting in higher meteor visibility.

The Lyrid meteor shower is notable for its fast and bright meteors that often leave lasting trails in the sky, aiding visibility against moon interference.

The Lyra comet and mother object of the Lyrids, C/1861 G1 Thatcher, is a long-period comet with a 415.5-year orbit around the sun. With its last perihelion in 1861, it will be a long wait until its return (around 2276).

Lyrid meteor shower: Viewing tips

To improve your chances of viewing the Lyrid meteor shower:

  • Reduce light pollution: Choose locations away from bright lights and ensure minimal light obstructs your view.
  • Allow night vision adjustment: Let your eyes adapt to darkness, even if moonlight interferes, for better perception of the surroundings.
  • Obstruct the moon: Opt for locations where foliage or buildings obscure the moon for clearer views.
  • Watch for Meteor Trains: Meteor trains can linger after a meteor, enhancing visibility.
  • Use a red light filter: Employ red light filters for devices to maintain night vision.
  • Be vigilant for fireballs: Fireballs are rare but possible during the Lyrid meteor shower and are worth watching for.

About our experts

Dr. Darren Baskill is an outreach officer and lecturer in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Sussex. With prior experience at the Royal Observatory Greenwich, he organized the annual Astronomical Photographer of the Year competition.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

How to Witness the Spectacular ‘Devil’s Comet’ Event of 2024 Tonight, Comparable to Mount Everest in Size

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Currently in orbit within the inner regions of the solar system is comet 12P/Pons-Brooks, also known as Pons-Brooks, which is making its first appearance in over 70 years and is expected to be visible without the aid of telescopes soon. This massive ice chunk, roughly 30 kilometers (19 miles) in diameter, is comparable in size to Mount Everest and is considered one of the brightest known periodic comets by astrophysicists. Pons-Brooks, classified as a Halley-type comet, has an orbit around the Sun of 71.3 years and was last observed in the sky in 1954. Discovered in 1812 by Jean-Louis Pons and later confirmed in 1883 by William Robert Brooks, this is the first recorded sighting of the comet dating back to 1385.

When is Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks Visible?

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks is currently visible and will remain so until April 21, 2024, with optimal viewing conditions expected towards the end of March. With binoculars or a small telescope, the comet is already observable in the sky, particularly when the Moon is located in the west below the Andromeda Galaxy moving through Pisces. By the end of the month, the comet will pass near the brighter stars in Aries, moving in the direction of Jupiter. As its brightness increases towards the end of the month, it may become visible to the naked eye under clear, dark skies. On March 31st, Pons-Brooks will be just 0.5 degrees away from a bright star named Hamal, which is equivalent to the diameter of the full moon, according to Strom. Those having trouble locating these constellations can benefit from downloading a stargazing app. For residents of the United States, the comet may also be visible in the sky during the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. Following its closest approach to the Sun on April 21, Pons-Brooks will fade and become visible only to observers in the southern hemisphere.

Why the Name “Devil’s” Comet?

The recent sighting of Pons-Brooks is not its first appearance in recent times. Referred to as the “Devil’s Comet,” due to a peculiar outburst in July 2023 that led to a temporary brightening resembling devil horns, Pons-Brooks is classified as a cryovolcanic comet that sporadically erupts, expelling dust, gas, and ice into space. These eruptions are triggered by the comet warming up as it nears the Sun, resulting in increased pressure causing the release of icy material from beneath the surface of the comet. The gas forms a bright coma, a halo of evaporated material surrounding the solid core of the comet. Comets appear brightest when closest to the Sun due to sunlight reflecting off the evaporated material, with the tails formed by interaction with charged particles from the solar wind. Pons-Brooks experienced similar but less intense outbursts on various dates in recent months, contributing to its brightness when close to the Sun.

What Does “12P” Mean?

The designation “12P” in the comet’s name indicates that it is the 12th comet discovered within a set period. Baskill explains that long-period comets, originating from the edge of the solar system, may have orbits lasting thousands or even tens of thousands of years, while short-period comets like Pons-Brooks return to the inner solar system in less than 200 years. Notable short-period comets include Comet Halley, with a period close to that of Pons-Brooks, expected to return in 2061. Current estimations suggest there are around 3,910 known comets in total, but astronomers believe there could be up to 1 trillion comets within our solar system.

Upcoming Comets

Expect to observe Comet 13P/Olbers in June and July, with observers in the Northern Hemisphere likely to spot it using binoculars. This comet, also known as a Halley’s Comet, orbits the Sun every 69 years. In late 2024, Comet C/2023 A3 is predicted to enter the inner solar system, potentially showcasing exceptional brightness in September and October, comparable to the brightest stars and potentially earning the title of “Great Comet.”

About Our Experts:

Dr. Paul Strom serves as an Assistant Professor within the Astronomy and Astrophysics Group at the University of Warwick, focusing on the PLATO space mission and various astrophysical topics, particularly far-ultraviolet observations to understand the environments where young planets form. His research paper titled “Exo-solar Comets from a Solar System Perspective” was published in the journal Publications of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific.

Dr. Darren Baskill is an outreach officer and lecturer at the University of Sussex’s School of Physics and Astronomy. Previously involved with the Royal Observatory Greenwich, he organized the annual Astronomical Photographer of the Year competition.

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

Witness the Spectacular Comet 12P/Ponsbrooks Tonight

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Comet 12P/Ponsbrooks observed near Tromsø, Norway on March 5th

Bernt Olsen

One of the brightest known comets is headed toward Earth and could be visible to the naked eye within the next few weeks. Follow our guide and find Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks for yourself.

When will the comet be visible?

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks orbits the sun for 71 years, during which it travels to the outer reaches of the solar system and back again. At this time, on April 21st, it will reach its perihelion, which means it will be closest to the sun. The comet will continue to approach Earth, reaching its closest approach on June 2nd at a distance of 232 million kilometers.

When is the best time to look for comets?

Although it will be close to Earth in June, the best time to see the comet in the Northern Hemisphere will be over the next few weeks, as the evenings will become brighter and less visible after the end of April. By June, it will be visible only in the Southern Hemisphere.

Where in the sky will comets appear?

12P/Pons Brooks has moved from the constellation Andromeda through the night sky to the constellation Pisces, where it is now located directly below the bright star Miraak. It will move into Aries at the end of March. It is expected to reach magnitude 5 and should be visible with the naked eye or with binoculars from areas with dark skies.

How can I see comets?

It’s best to plan ahead. Use astronomical observation software Stellarium etc. Pinpoint exactly where the comet will be visible on the days and times you want to see it. In the Northern Hemisphere, the comet will be near the horizon just after sunset and will set earlier as March progresses. At the end of the month, the sun sets a few hours after sunset, so we recommend viewing it as soon as it gets dark.

What do comets look like?

The core of 12P/Ponsbrooks is about 30 kilometers in diameter and, like other comets, appears to have a bright center and a tail behind it. Sightings of this particular comet date back to at least 1385, when Chinese and European astronomers recorded sightings of this comet.

Can I see Comet 12P/Ponsbrooks during a solar eclipse?

If you’re lucky enough to be in the path of the total solar eclipse on April 8, you might be able to spot the comet between the Sun and Jupiter. Jupiter appears to the upper left of the Sun during that period. The moon blocks all sunlight for four minutes.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Get Ready to Witness the Spectacular Peak of the 2023 Geminid Meteor Shower Tonight

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Unlike last year, when a nearly full moon marred the meteor shower, tonight's Geminid meteor shower in 2023 will be spectacular. The Geminid meteor shower peaks at the new moon, so conditions are favorable, and you may benefit from this crisp, cool night. Sunny sky.

Make the most of it this year. That's because next year's 2024 Geminid meteor shower will peak during a full moon, so things won't be as good. The Geminid meteor shower is a great shower to get young astronomers involved in because the showers start relatively early (around 9 pm to 10 pm). and They are colorful!

So how can you find a Geminid? How can you tell them apart from sporadic or Andromedids? What causes the color difference in meteors? Where in the sky are you looking?

If you want to plan ahead for upcoming meteor showers in the UK, be sure to read more in our comprehensive meteor shower guide. If you're looking for more stargazing tips, check out our beginner's guide to astronomy.

When will the Geminid meteor shower occur in 2023?

The Geminid meteor shower will peak tonight, Wednesday, December 13th. This meteor shower will remain visible until December 20, 2023, when it overlaps with the Uruid meteor shower.

The Geminid meteor shower is of reasonable length and is one of the best and most reliable showers throughout the year. It is also one of the most active climates, with its peak extending over several nights from December 12th to 15th. This is helpful when dealing with ever-changing weather.

When is the best time to see the Geminid meteor shower?

Unlike other meteor showers, the Geminid meteor shower has a broad maximum when there is only a short period of time before there is a reliable “best time” for observing. This means you have a better chance of spotting a shooting star.

“The Geminid meteor shower is probably the best of the year, with a high peak of activity in mid-December and a wide range of duration,” says veteran astronomer Pete Lawrence.

“During 2023, the moon will not interfere at all, as it will be a new moon on December 12th. The night peaks will be on December 12/13, 13/14, and 14/15, if the sky is clear. , there can be up to 12 hours of darkness each night,” Lawrence explains.

According to NASA, the Geminid meteor shower will begin around the 20th. From 9pm to 10pm The Royal Observatory Greenwich notes that this is the heaviest rainfall. Do good activities before midnight.

How many Geminid meteors can you see?

Under perfect conditions, Gemind's Zenith Hour Rate (ZHR) would be 150. This means you could see up to 120 to 150 meteors per hour at its peak. However, even if there are favorable conditions like this year, the reality is that there is a high possibility that this will not be the case. Still, you can expect to see about 60 meteors per hour, or about 1 to 2 per minute, from around 10 p.m. until dawn.

“At its peak, the Geminid meteor shower's zenith time rate, or the number of meteors you would expect to see under perfect conditions, will be around 120 meteors per hour. In reality, the actual number is lower than this. is lower, but still enough to be impressive,” says Lawrence.

Compared to other meteor showers, the Geminid meteor shower has a relatively moderate speed of 126,000 km/h (78,000 mph), or 35 km/s (22 miles per second).

(The fastest meteors come from the Leonids in November, which is about twice as fast as the Geminids.)

When the Geminid meteor shower was first observed in the mid-1800s, the showers were not as impressive as they are today. There are only about 10 to 20 meteors per hour.. Since then, the number of meteors has increased to about 120 per hour and is still thought to be intensifying each year.

colorful meteor

The Geminid meteor shower is bright and can appear white, yellow, green, and sometimes red, orange, or blue. This is due to the presence of metals that make up the pieces, similar to how we design fireworks to look colorful when they explode.

The air a meteor travels through also affects the colors we see, but it's generally different chemical elements that produce the different colors of meteors. When a meteor enters Earth's atmosphere, these various chemicals ionize and emit light.

Most Geminid meteors appear yellow or white in color. High iron/magnesium ratioBut you might also be able to find purple meteors from calcium-rich debris, or a beautiful blue-green color from magnesium.

Geminid meteor colors and their meanings

yellow: iron, magnesium

Green/Blue: nickel, magnesium

purple: rich in calcium

Blue: Rich in magnesium including ionized calcium

Red and orange: sodium, potassium, nitrogen, oxygen

Where should you look in the sky to see the Geminid meteor shower?

Meteor showers are usually named after the constellation in which their radiant is located. The radiant of a meteor shower refers to the point in the sky where meteors appear to originate. In the case of the Geminid meteor shower, they appear to originate from the Geminid constellation, but this is not the actual “source,” just how we perceive it from Earth . “Perspective effects cause Geminid meteors to be ejected from a location close to the Gemini star Caster during peak activity,” Lawrence says. To find Gemini, look for Orion the Hunter (if you need a refresher, check out our Beginner's Guide to Astronomy). It is easily distinguished by the three bright stars that make up Orion's belt: Mintaka, Alnylam, and Alnitak. If you look up to your left from the constellation Orion, you'll see two bright stars high in the sky: Castor and Pollux. These two stars each represent the twins in the constellation Gemini. The Gemini radiant lies directly above Castor, which is the slightly fainter of her two stars (Pollocks is brighter and more yellow in color).

Pro tip: incorporate as much sky as possible

But for the best chance of seeing more meteors, try to take in as much of the sky as possible. Although the meteors appear to originate from the constellation Gemini, they appear all over the sky. Meteors farther away from the radiant appear to leave longer trails, while meteors closer to the radiant may appear shorter. This is because at the radiant point, the meteor is tilted toward us. Known as “shortening.” Therefore, for the best chance of seeing long-tailed meteors (the result of them traveling further from their source), it's best to look a little further away from the constellation.

How to increase your chances of spotting a Geminid meteor

To make the most of this amazing shower, find a dark spot away from street lights if possible to minimize light pollution. Look for a spot where you can see as much of the sky as possible. Patience is key, as your eyes may take some time to adjust to the darkness. If you plan to spend a long time in the cold night air, a comfortable reclining position and warm clothing are recommended. And, as Lawrence explains, you don't need any special equipment to observe the Geminid meteor shower. “Activities will take place from December 4th to 17th. All you need is your eyes to observe the shower. Wait 20 minutes in the dark before starting your watch. Dress warmly and sit on a sun lounger or Using the equivalent, you can lie down and look up at an altitude of about 60 degrees (two-thirds of the sky) and see large stars and planets to the south in all directions.” If you have a counting counter handy, it's a handy way to keep track of how many meteors you see, especially when there can be as many meteors as there are in the Geminid meteor shower.

Why is this year's Geminid meteor shower so successful?

The 2023 Geminid meteor shower is expected to be the best meteor shower of the year due to the large number of meteors expected and favorable conditions. Moonless nights coincide with the peak, providing optimal viewing conditions. The only thing we have to deal with is the weather. “Some years are good for meteor showers, and others are not so good. The visibility and potential sight of such events depends on the quality of the sky, the degree of light pollution, the presence of the moon, and the local weather. It’s decided,” Lawrence said. “Light pollution and potential weather can be managed by planning ahead and moving locations if conditions are not favorable. It's not so easy to deal with the moon and the sky When it’s big and bright, everything is drowned out by the brightest meteor trails,” he added. Therefore, it is very convenient that the moon does not disturb us this year.

Where did the Geminid meteor shower come from?

The Geminid meteor shower occurs when Earth passes through a stream of dust and debris left behind by comets and asteroids orbiting the sun. But unlike other meteor showers that favor comet debris, the Geminid meteor shower is a little different. “Geminid meteors have a strange origin and are associated with the asteroid 3200 Phaethon. Described as 'rocky comets,' these objects typically have sand grain-sized particles scattered around their orbits, which make up the Earth's surface. When it encounters the atmosphere, it evaporates and creates a meteor trail,” Lawrence said. When the Geminid meteor shower peaks between December 12 and 15, that's when we pass through the densest part of the stream. 3200 Phaethon is unique for more than just the fact that most meteor showers are caused by comet debris rather than asteroids. Its orbit brings it closer to the Sun than any other asteroid.

mystery to be solved

Technically, 3200 Phaethon is a near-Earth asteroidHowever, because it exhibits properties of both an asteroid and a comet, many refer to it as a “rocky comet” or even a “dead comet” in some cases. It takes just 1.4 years to go around the sun. a Recent research published in Planetary Science Journal This suggests that it has a tail made of sodium gas, rather than dust as previously thought. (For comparison, most asteroids are composed primarily of rock, so they don't form tails as they approach the Sun.) So if Phaethon has a sodium tail, how could the Geminid meteor shower form? Could it have released other substances? DESTINY+, Missions currently planned for 2025 The purpose is to know. The spacecraft, currently being developed by Japan's space agency JAXA, will perform a flyby of Phaethon and collect samples of dust streams. The mission will also demonstrate technologies that will enable future low-cost, high-frequency deep space exploration.

About our expert Pete Lawrence

Pete Lawrence is an experienced astronomer, astrophotographer and BBC presenter. night sky. You can watch him on BBC Four or catch up on demand on BBC iPlayer.

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Source: www.sciencefocus.com

The Top 6 Spectacular Space Photos from 2023

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Wolf Rayet star WR 124 glimpsed by JWST

NASA, ESA, CSA, STSCI, ERO production team

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) helped make 2023 the year of amazing space images. But this groundbreaking telescope wasn’t the only source of visual wonder. A series of new missions are sending back photos from space, and the view from Earth isn’t bad either. Here are 6 photos that surprised us the most.

The star in the photo above was captured by JWST as it prepared to explode. It’s called WR 124 and has about 30 times the mass of the Sun. When a star that large runs out of hydrogen to burn in its core, heavier elements begin to fuse together. This fusion creates a powerful burst of energy, sending gusts of wind at speeds of millions of kilometers per hour. When these powerful winds strip away the outer layers of a star, it becomes a star known as a Wolf-Rayet star. It will explode as a supernova within a few million years after it peels off. The purple spots in this photo are clouds of dust and gas that were the outer layer of WR 124. It has already lost about 10 times the mass of the Sun. If these layers are not intact, it is doomed to explode into a supernova.

Solar tornado seen from Earth

Andrew McCarthy and Jason Guenzel

Then we have the tallest solar tornado ever recorded (above). The event occurred on March 14, when the rotation of the sun’s magnetic field stirred up plasma near the north pole. This feature rose above the surface of the Sun, and the giant flare reached a height of 178,000 kilometers, or nearly 14 times the diameter of Earth. This image is the result of a careful collaboration between astrophotographers Jason Genzel and Andrew McCarthy. They used high-speed cameras to record the event, and it took him five days and 90,000 individual shots to create the photos. The sun appears furry in this image because it is covered in millions of stirring geysers of plasma, each lasting only a few minutes.

Herbig Halo 211 captured by JWST

ESA/Webb, NASA, CSA, Tom Ray (Dublin)

This bright explosion (above) reveals the newborn star’s incredible supersonic jet. These result in what are known as Herbig-Haro objects. The star itself is hidden within the dark cloud of gas from which it formed, but when jets erupt from its
ides, they collide with surrounding gas and dust, creating huge shock waves that cause them to glow. This particular object, called Helbig Halo 211, is located in the constellation Perseus, about 1000 light-years from Earth.

Jupiter’s moon Io

NASA/JPL-California Institute of Technology/SwRI/MSSS/Brian Swift/CC BY

Return to our solar system and proceed to Jupiter’s moon Io (above). In October, NASA’s Juno spacecraft flew just 7,000 miles (11,645 kilometers) above the moon’s surface, capturing this amazing image of it passing by. This is one of the best photos of Io ever taken, with enough detail to show the shadows of some of the giant volcanoes.

India’s Vikram lander lands on the moon as part of Chandrayaan-3 mission

Isro

And to our moon. On August 23, India’s Chandrayaan-3 mission landed near the moon’s south pole for the first time. This photo (above) of the Vikram lander landing on the moon was taken by the mission’s Pragyan rover a week later. The study of the moon’s south pole, initiated by Chandrayaan-3, is particularly important because of the large amount of ice there, which could help in future human exploration and the establishment of a permanent lunar base.

Comet Nishimura as seen by an amateur astronomer

Javier Zayas/Moment RF/Getty Images

Our final images become more ephemeral. Above is Comet Nishimura, which shows a striped pattern in the night sky as seen from Earth. Two rare green comets made a dramatic appearance in the sky this year. First, in early February, comet C/2022 E3 approached Earth for the first time in 50,000 years. Then, in August, amateur astronomer Hideo Nishimura discovered another comet (now named after him) that remained visible for about two months. These comets appear green because the gas surrounding their rocky core contains diatomic carbon. Diatomic carbon is a relatively rare substance consisting of a pair of bonded carbon atoms. Make the most of your images of Comet Nishimura now. The comet takes about 437 years to orbit the Sun, so it won’t be seen again until the 25th century.

Source: www.newscientist.com

JWST Captures Spectacular Image of Uranus Revealing 13 Rings and 9 Moons

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Uranus showing all its rings and 9 of the planet’s 27 moons

NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI

This amazing shot of Uranus taken by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) gives us the most complete view of Uranus yet, revealing its rings and turbulent atmosphere in stunning detail .

In April, JWST used infrared sensors to image Uranus, revealing more of the ice giant’s rock and dust rings, which have only been directly imaged twice before, by the Voyager 2 spacecraft and by Earth’s Keck Observatory. Now it can be observed clearly. Eleven of Uranus’s 13 known rings were visible in this image, but the last two were too dark to see.

JWST has now followed up on these observations using a wider field of view and more wavelengths of infrared light, revealing the rings in even more detail and showing us the elusive final two rings.

The diagram above also shows nine of Uranus’ 27 moons. These are all tilted away from the Sun at her 98 degree angle, the same as the planet itself. Another new image from JWST below shows five more moons (Oberon, Umbriel, Ariel, Miranda, and Titania) shining like blue stars, bringing the total shown to 14.

This JWST photo of Uranus shows five more moons, shining like blue stars around the planet. They are (clockwise from top) Oberon, Umbriel, Ariel, Miranda, and Titania.

STScI Copyright: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI

The planet’s tilt causes long stretches of sunlight and darkness on different sides of Uranus, with each season lasting 21 Earth years and producing polar caps and atmospheric storms. Both can be seen more clearly in this picture. The storm lies just below the southern edge of the broad white polar cap, appearing as a white wisp against a blue background.

Although it takes Uranus 84 years to orbit the Sun, it only takes 17 hours to complete its rotation, allowing its atmosphere and moons to travel faster than standard telescopic exposures. Astronomers created the image above by combining long and short exposure times with JWST to smooth out the changing features.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

A spectacular first photo of a snow leopard captured under the stars

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Looking for ghosts requires special patience. The chances of finding it are low, but doubting means giving up, so keep looking.

This is a technique for tracking snow leopards. Morap Namgair learned that early. He was five years old when he first saw the animal in his remote village of Ulay in Ladakh, India. The area is full of wildlife and is a paradise for aspiring photographers like Molap and his younger brother Stanzin. These big cats are called locally. Shanimmortalized in the BBC series Planet Earth II They were mainly grateful to their father, Norbu, who followed them as a crew member.

Ladakh had just become famous for its sightings, but everything was shut down due to the pandemic. That’s when the brothers vowed to photograph something no one had ever photographed before: a snow leopard under the stars. They hoped the image would highlight the beauty of this mountain region and its apex predator, thereby spurring efforts to conserve both. The region is warming twice as fast as the rest of the world, threatening landscapes and wildlife. The brothers believed that if the outside world could only see what was at stake, that would influence the government’s actions.

They spent months blanketing the area with cameras. However, halfway through the project, Stanzin died of heart disease. Although it was difficult, Morap pushed forward on his own.

Last August, on a 33°C (91°F) day, he climbed a ridge at 4,900 meters above sea level. “What I found on camera was a dream come true,” Morap says. He was bittersweet though. “Buddhism believes in reincarnation. I always look at snow leopards and often think, ‘What would happen if Stan Jin was reincarnated as a snow leopard?’ Perhaps he will stop for a photo or perhaps say hello. Maybe he did.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com