Mars Gazette

As the world eagerly anticipates the first crewed lunar mission in over half a century, Time magazine has rolled out the red carpet with a special commemorative cover issue honoring the Artemis 2 astronauts. Aptly titled “Back to the Moon”, the issue hit newsstands on January 30 and is a testament to humanity’s unyielding spirit of exploration and discovery.

Pioneering a new era of lunar exploration, the Artemis 2 mission, spearheaded by NASA, aims to return humans to the Moon by 2024. This mission is not just a sequel to the legendary Apollo missions, but a stepping stone for future manned missions to Mars and beyond.

Time’s cover features a striking image of the Artemis 2 crew, capturing the essence of their courage and determination. This special issue is not just a tribute to the astronauts, but also an educational resource, offering deep insights into the mission’s objectives, the technology involved, and the potential implications for future space exploration.

The Artemis 2 mission is making history in more ways than one. It will be the first mission to send a woman to the moon, breaking gender barriers and setting a precedent for future space exploration. This momentous event is celebrated within the pages of Time magazine, highlighting the critical role of women in the new era of space exploration.

The “Back to the Moon” issue also features exclusive interviews with the astronauts, giving readers a rare chance to understand their thoughts, fears, and aspirations as they prepare for this monumental journey. From discussing the rigorous training to expressing their hopes for the future of space exploration, the astronauts open up about the legacy they hope to leave behind.

In addition to the astronauts’ narratives, Time magazine dives into the technical aspects of the mission. Detailed features explore the state-of-the-art spacecraft, the Orion, and the powerful Space Launch System rocket, which will carry the crew to the moon. The magazine also delves into the logistical challenges of the mission, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in lunar travel.

Another highlight of the issue is a feature on the Artemis Base Camp, the planned long-term habitation zone on the lunar surface. This aspect of the mission is crucial for future space exploration, as it will pave the way for sustainable human presence on the moon, and eventually, on Mars.

Time’s “Back to the Moon” issue is not just a commemoration of the upcoming Artemis 2 mission. It’s a celebration of the human spirit, of our relentless drive to explore the unknown and push the boundaries of our knowledge and capabilities. As we stand on the brink of a new era in space exploration, this special issue serves as a reminder of how far we’ve come and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.

As the world waits with bated breath for the Artemis 2 mission to take flight, Time’s special issue is a must-read for anyone interested in the future of space exploration. It’s a salute to the brave astronauts who are about to embark on this historic journey and a testament to humanity’s unquenchable thirst for discovery.

Read more from the original source here: https://www.space.com/entertainment/back-to-the-moon-time-magazine-salutes-artemis-2-astronauts-in-special-commemorative-cover-issue.

Title: NASA Gears Up for Final Artemis 2 SLS Test: A Crucial Step towards Moon Mission

Saturday, Jan. 31, 2026 will mark a crucial milestone for NASA’s Artemis 2 mission as the space agency prepares to undertake the last major test of the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket – the wet dress rehearsal. This test is a critical step forward in the ambitious goal of landing the next man and the first woman on the lunar surface, and it has the world watching with bated breath.

The wet dress rehearsal is a comprehensive test of the rocket’s fueling system. It involves loading the rocket with over 700,000 gallons of super-cooled liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen and performing all the pre-launch operations, right up until the point of ignition. However, the engines will not be fired during this test. The aim is to ensure that all systems are functioning as expected before the actual launch.

The SLS rocket, the most powerful ever built by NASA, is set to carry a crew of astronauts around the moon in the Artemis 2 mission. The success of this mission hinges on this wet dress rehearsal, a testament to the importance of Saturday’s test.

The Artemis program, named after the twin sister of Apollo in Greek mythology, is NASA’s next giant leap in space exploration, aiming to return humans to the moon and eventually establish a sustainable human presence there by 2024. The Artemis 2 mission, specifically, will mark the first time since the Apollo missions that humans will travel around the moon.

The Artemis 2 mission is integral to NASA’s long-term goal of sending humans to Mars. The moon will serve as a proving ground for the technologies and techniques needed for a journey to the Red Planet. The success of the upcoming wet dress rehearsal will not only be a significant step towards the moon but also a leap towards Mars and beyond.

While the world continues to battle terrestrial issues, NASA’s eyes remain firmly fixed on the stars. The upcoming wet dress rehearsal is a symbol of human resilience and determination, a beacon of hope in uncertain times. The success of this test would not only be a triumph for NASA but for all of humankind, signifying our unwavering spirit of exploration.

As the countdown for the wet dress rehearsal begins, the world waits in anticipation of another historic leap towards space exploration. Observers worldwide can follow the test live, sharing in the thrill and excitement of this significant event.

In the words of NASA’s Artemis program lead, Marshall Smith, “We are going where no one has gone before. It’s a new era of space exploration, and we are excited to lead the charge.”

NASA’s journey back to the moon and beyond continues, and the Artemis 2 SLS wet dress rehearsal is the next big step in that journey. As we look forward to this milestone, we are reminded of the vastness of our universe and our persistent pursuit to understand it better.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/news/live/artemis-2-moon-rocket-nasa-fueling-test-jan-31-2026](https://www.space.com/news/live/artemis-2-moon-rocket-nasa-fueling-test-jan-31-2026).

Title: ‘The Sixth Nik’: A Deep-Space Odyssey from Bestselling Author Daniel Kraus

Living spaceships, plague planets, and quotes from infamous figures like Josef Mengele make up the bizarre and captivating universe of “The Sixth Nik,” the first sci-fi novel by New York Times bestselling author Daniel Kraus.

Already known for his prolific storytelling in works such as “Whalefall” and “Angel Down,” Kraus has carved a unique niche for himself within the realm of science fiction with this latest release. The novel, which can only be described as a deep-space mystery, is a journey into the unknown that pushes the limits of imagination and explores a universe teeming with bizarre and uncharted territories.

“The Sixth Nik” takes readers on an extraordinary voyage through the cosmos, promising to be a memorable reading experience for all who dare to delve into its pages. The novel is filled with living spaceships – sentient vessels that travel through the cosmos – and plague-ridden planets, offering an intriguing mix of sci-fi and horror elements that Kraus is known for.

The novel also notably includes a quote from Josef Mengele, an infamous figure known for his inhuman experiments during the Holocaust. This unexpected reference serves to add an eerie dimension to the narrative, further expanding the boundaries of Kraus’ storytelling.

While the inclusion of such a quote might seem unconventional in a sci-fi novel, Kraus uses it to provide a chilling juxtaposition between the vast, unknowable mysteries of space and the dark depths of human nature. It’s a constant reminder throughout the narrative that, even as we venture into the unknown, the monsters we’ve known and feared on Earth have a way of following us into the cosmos.

“The Sixth Nik” is far from your typical space odyssey. It’s weird, it’s wonderful, it’s horrifying, and it’s utterly captivating. Kraus has managed to create a universe that’s as vast and mysterious as the one we live in, filled with creatures and concepts that will leave readers pondering long after they’ve turned the last page.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Kraus or a newcomer to his work, “The Sixth Nik” is sure to be a fascinating addition to your sci-fi collection. It’s a testament to Kraus’ incredible storytelling abilities, and a shining example of how he continues to push boundaries and explore new territories in his writing.

As we continue to explore and understand our own universe, “The Sixth Nik” serves as an exciting and thought-provoking reminder of just how much there is to discover, both within the vast expanse of space and within the depths of the human mind.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-books/living-spaceships-plague-planets-and-a-quote-from-josef-mengele-the-sixth-nik-is-nyt-bestselling-author-daniel-kraus-1st-sci-fi-novel-and-its-really-weird.](https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-books/living-spaceships-plague-planets-and-a-quote-from-josef-mengele-the-sixth-nik-is-nyt-bestselling-author-daniel-kraus-1st-sci-fi-novel-and-its-really-weird)

Title: Rocket Lab’s ‘Hungry Hippo’ Arrives in Virginia: A New Chapter in Space Travel

In a significant step towards the future of space exploration, Rocket Lab’s ‘Hungry Hippo’ fairing has arrived at the company’s Virginia Spaceport facilities, marking a new phase in the development of their novel Neutron launch vehicle. The arrival of the ‘Hungry Hippo’ indicates that the company is on track with its ambitious timeline set for the Neutron’s maiden voyage.

The ‘Hungry Hippo’ is not an actual ravenous semi-aquatic mammal, but rather a critical component of Rocket Lab’s Neutron launch vehicle. A fairing, in the context of space travel, is a protective shell that shields the spacecraft’s payload during the harsh journey through Earth’s atmosphere into space. It’s essentially the nose cone of the rocket that takes the brunt of the atmospheric pressure and temperature extremes during launch. Named for its voracious appetite for payload, the ‘Hungry Hippo’ fairing boasts a larger cargo capacity than Rocket Lab’s previous vehicles, allowing the company to deliver more equipment to space in a single launch.

The arrival of the ‘Hungry Hippo’ at the Virginia Spaceport signals the next phase of the Neutron’s development: integration. This is the process of assembling the various components of the launch vehicle and ensuring they function together as a cohesive unit. It’s a critical stage in the development of any spacecraft, and one that will put Rocket Lab’s engineering prowess to the test.

Rocket Lab’s Neutron vehicle is a part of a new generation of reusable rockets. The company aims for the Neutron to be capable of carrying not just satellites but also human passengers into space, demonstrating the rapid evolution of private space travel. The Neutron’s development is a clear signal that Rocket Lab is positioning itself to be a significant player in the burgeoning space tourism industry.

The Neutron’s upcoming journey represents a leap forward in terms of payload capacity for Rocket Lab. The company’s previous launch vehicle, Electron, could carry only about 500 pounds to low Earth orbit, whereas the Neutron is expected to lift up to 8,000 pounds. This significant increase in payload capacity opens up new possibilities for Rocket Lab and its clients, as it allows for more significant and complex missions.

Rocket Lab’s progress in recent years has been remarkable, and the arrival of the ‘Hungry Hippo’ fairing at the Virginia Spaceport is a testament to the company’s dedication and innovation. As the Neutron’s development continues, the world watches with bated breath, eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the exciting narrative of space exploration.

Whether you’re an avid space enthusiast or just casually interested in the cosmic beyond, the ‘Hungry Hippo’s’ arrival in Virginia is a noteworthy event. It symbolizes the rapid advancements in space tourism, the increasing potential for human space travel, and the limitless possibilities that our universe holds.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/rocket-labs-hungry-hippo-neutron-fairing-arrives-at-spaceport-in-virginia](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/rocket-labs-hungry-hippo-neutron-fairing-arrives-at-spaceport-in-virginia).

Title: A Celestial Ballet: Watch the ‘Seven Sisters’ of Pleiades Dance with the Waxing Moon Tonight

Get ready to stargaze tonight as the universe prepares a captivating celestial ballet. The Pleiades, often referred to as the ‘Seven Sisters,’ will be at their closest to the moon in the hours following sunset. This rare astronomical event will offer a mesmerizing sight as the waxing moon beautifully illuminates the Pleiades cluster.

The Pleiades, a group of stars that are part of the Taurus constellation, have fascinated astronomers for millennia. Greek mythology tells a tale of seven sisters transformed into stars to escape Orion’s pursuit, birthing the name ‘Seven Sisters.’ However, the cluster actually comprises hundreds of stars, with the seven brightest ones being visible to the naked eye.

Tonight, these seven celestial sisters will be basking in the glow of a waxing moon, creating a surreal spectacle in the night sky. The moon, in its waxing gibbous phase, will be more than half-lit but not fully illuminated. This phase of the moon is the perfect partner for the Pleiades, as it provides enough light to make the star cluster shine brightly, but not so much that it overshadows their twinkle.

For the best viewing experience, be sure to find a location away from city lights. The Pleiades will first appear as a tiny, misty dipper of stars. As the moon climbs higher in the sky, the stars of the Pleiades become more discernible. With a pair of binoculars, many more stars can be seen twinkling in the cluster.

The Pleiades are located in the constellation Taurus, which is easily found in the western sky during the early evening hours. As the evening progresses, the Pleiades and the waxing moon will move across the sky, providing hours of viewing pleasure.

This cosmic event is a reminder that the universe is full of awe-inspiring phenomena. The ballet of the Pleiades and the moon is not just a beautiful spectacle, but also a chance to reflect on our place in the cosmos. So, bundle up, head outside, and let the dance of the ‘Seven Sisters’ with the waxing moon captivate your senses.

Do not miss this opportunity to witness one of nature’s grandest shows. The Pleiades’ close proximity to the moon following sunset only happens occasionally, so make sure you step outside tonight to watch this magical dance of celestial bodies.

For those interested in delving deeper into the mysteries of the universe, various online resources and applications can guide you through the night sky, helping you identify constellations, planets, and other celestial bodies. This celestial rendezvous is just a glimpse of the wonders that the universe has to offer.

So, whether you are a seasoned astronomer or a casual stargazer, tonight offers a unique opportunity to observe the celestial beauty of the ‘Seven Sisters’ swimming in the light of a waxing moon.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/stargazing/see-the-seven-sisters-of-the-pleiades-swim-in-the-light-of-a-waxing-moon-at-sunset-jan-27-2025](https://www.space.com/stargazing/see-the-seven-sisters-of-the-pleiades-swim-in-the-light-of-a-waxing-moon-at-sunset-jan-27-2025).

Title: James Webb Space Telescope Witnesses a Cosmic Crystal Show

In a cosmic spectacle, NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope has recently observed an intriguing phenomenon unfolding far from Earth. A young star, in the throes of its celestial infancy, has been viewed hurling heat-formed crystals into the void of space. This discovery has offered the scientists a new clue into the fascinating evolution of comets.

The James Webb Space Telescope, the most powerful space telescope ever built, has already started rewriting our understanding of the universe, and this latest discovery adds another exciting chapter to its scientific saga. The newborn star, swaddled in an ethereal nebula, is flinging a stream of crystals across space like a cosmic conveyor belt. These are not ordinary crystals, but heat-formed ones, shaped in the crucible of extreme temperatures and pressures found near a young star.

What makes this observation particularly interesting is its potential link to the life cycle of comets. Comets, often described as “dirty snowballs” of the cosmos, are made up of a mix of rock, dust, water ice, and frozen gases. Scientists have long believed that comets are time capsules from the earliest days of our solar system, carrying within them the fundamental building blocks that led to the formation of planets and possibly even life.

The heat-formed crystals seen by the James Webb Space Telescope are similar to those found in comets that have journeyed close to Earth. This suggests that such crystals might be a common component of comets, which could have been ‘seeded’ by these crystals from young stars. The discovery could help scientists understand more about how comets form and evolve over time.

The James Webb Space Telescope, named after the former NASA administrator who crafted the Apollo moon-landing program, was launched in December 2021. Designed to succeed the iconic Hubble Space Telescope, Webb has a primary mirror that’s nearly three times the size of Hubble’s, enabling it to peer further into space and reveal more about the universe’s earliest galaxies.

This most recent observation demonstrates the remarkable capabilities of the Webb telescope. Its ability to detect these heat-formed crystals, flung out from a young star, underscores the incredible sensitivity and resolution of its instruments. The discovery not only enhances our understanding of comets but also provides a glimpse into the processes that occur in the dynamic environments of newborn stars.

The universe is full of wonders and mysteries yet to be discovered, and the James Webb Space Telescope is poised to reveal them. As it continues its journey, observing distant galaxies and newborn stars, we can expect many more exciting revelations about our cosmos.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/astronomy/james-webb-space-telescope/james-webb-space-telescope-sees-comet-seeding-crystals-flowing-far-from-newborn-star-photo](https://www.space.com/astronomy/james-webb-space-telescope/james-webb-space-telescope-sees-comet-seeding-crystals-flowing-far-from-newborn-star-photo).

Title: The Name Game: What’s Blue Origin’s Latest Megasatellite Called?

Are you a space enthusiast who loves a good challenge? If you are, then Space.com’s weekly crossword puzzle is just for you. The quiz, brewed from the most popular headlines of the week, will test your knowledge and recall of the latest happenings in the cosmos. This week’s puzzle has an intriguing question: What is the name of Blue Origin’s new communications megasatellite?

Blue Origin, the private spaceflight company founded by Jeff Bezos, has been making waves in the field of space technology. In the last week, it made headlines with the announcement of a new communications megasatellite. But, this isn’t just any satellite; it’s a true behemoth. The name of this technological marvel, however, is the million-dollar question – or rather, the question of the week in Space.com’s crossword puzzle.

The megasatellite, designed to provide high-speed internet connectivity across the globe, represents a significant leap in space technology. It’s a part of a broader push by space companies to improve global communications infrastructure, bringing internet to remote and underserved areas. But what’s it called? That’s what the crossword puzzle aims to help you figure out.

Space.com’s weekly crossword challenge is an engaging way to keep up with the fast-paced world of space exploration. It’s not just about solving a puzzle; it’s about diving deep into the latest breakthroughs in space technology, planetary science, and the exploration of the universe. The quiz is a fun yet insightful way to learn about the most significant news in the cosmos, one crossword square at a time.

As we look up at the sky, wondering what lies beyond our reach, space exploration companies like Blue Origin are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. And as they do, you can keep up with their groundbreaking efforts and test your space smarts with Space.com’s weekly crossword challenge.

So, do you think you know the name of Blue Origin’s new megasatellite? Grab your crossword pencils, engage your brain gears, and take on the challenge. And who knows? By the time you’ve filled out that crossword grid, you might just find yourself a bit more versed in the vast and thrilling world of space exploration.

Ready to test your space knowledge? You can find the crossword puzzle, along with the clues and a comprehensive guide to the week’s space news, at the following link:

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/astronomy/space-com-headlines-crossword-quiz-for-week-of-jan-19-2026-what-is-the-name-of-blue-origins-new-communications-megasatellite](https://www.space.com/astronomy/space-com-headlines-crossword-quiz-for-week-of-jan-19-2026-what-is-the-name-of-blue-origins-new-communications-megasatellite).

Bestselling author Martha Wells is set to take readers on an interstellar road trip in her latest installment of the “Murderbot Diaries” series, “Platform Decay.” In an exclusive interview with Space.com, Wells described the journey as “the family roadtrip from hell on Ringworld.”

Riding high on the success of her previous entries in the “Murderbot Diaries” series, Wells continues to explore the intricate psyche of a sentient security robot, known as Murderbot, who has a biting sense of humor and more than a few existential dilemmas. Wells’ unique blend of science fiction, action, and dry wit has earned her a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.

“Platform Decay” sees Murderbot and its ragtag group of human companions venture into the sprawling artificial world of Ringworld. The stakes are high, and the moral dilemmas are complex. Ringworld, a gargantuan structure looping around a star, presents unique challenges and potential dangers that the group must navigate.

Wells shares, “The moral quandaries are a crucial part of the narrative. How does Murderbot, a synthetic being, grapple with the human concept of right and wrong? And how does it apply these concepts in a world where the lines are blurred?” She adds, “Murderbot is not human, yet it’s continually thrust into human predicaments and has to make human-like decisions.”

The author also highlights the importance of humor, particularly Murderbot’s bitter brand of it, in the novel. “Humor is a coping mechanism for Murderbot, a way to deal with the intensity of its experiences and the absurdity of its existence,” Wells explains.

The “Murderbot Diaries” series has captivated readers with its unique protagonist and Wells’ ability to blend high-stakes action with thought-provoking themes. It’s a sci-fi saga that delves into the heart of what it means to be sentient, to grapple with morality, and to navigate the complexities of interpersonal relationships, albeit from the perspective of a self-aware robot.

Fans of the series can expect the same level of tension, wit, and profound insight in “Platform Decay.” Beyond the captivating narrative, the book also prompts readers to contemplate our own future in space exploration. Ringworld, as Wells paints it, is both a marvel of future engineering and a stark reminder of the potential perils that await humanity in the cosmos.

As we continue to push the boundaries of space exploration, “Platform Decay” offers a thrilling and thought-provoking journey into the unknown, right from the comfort of your reading nook.

“Platform Decay” is set to launch readers into yet another thrilling interstellar adventure with Murderbot at the helm. Prepare for a family road trip like no other, where every turn could lead to unexpected moral dilemmas, imminent danger, or a sarcastic quip from our favorite sentient security unit.

Read more from the original source here: https://www.space.com/entertainment/space-books/martha-wells-next-murderbot-diaries-book-is-the-family-roadtrip-from-hell-on-ringworld-interview.

Title: ‘The most incredible display of aurora I’ve ever seen in my 20 years of flying’: Pilot Captures Historic Northern Lights Show from 37,000 Feet

A seasoned pilot cruising at an altitude of 37,000 feet has captured what he describes as “the most incredible display of aurora I’ve ever seen in my 20 years of flying”. Stunning photographs of the historic Northern Lights show, taken during a severe G4 geomagnetic storm, one of the strongest in years, have left both scientists and laypeople alike in awe.

The Northern Lights, or aurora borealis, are a natural light phenomenon that occurs in the Earth’s polar regions when charged particles from the Sun interact with the Earth’s magnetic field. A G4 geomagnetic storm, the second-highest category on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) space weather scale, can supercharge this spectacle, leading to a dazzling display of greens, pinks, purples, and blues dancing across the sky.

The pilot, whose identity remains undisclosed, seized the unique opportunity to immortalize this remarkable occurrence from an unusually high vantage point, far above the Earth’s surface. The resulting imagery serves as a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty of our planet’s natural phenomena and the cosmic forces at work beyond our atmosphere.

In the photos, the Northern Lights appear as an ethereal curtain of shimmering colors stretching from horizon to horizon, a sight that few have the privilege of witnessing in such grandeur. Every curling wave and vibrant color shift is captured in crisp detail, providing a mesmerizing perspective of this celestial ballet.

The recent G4 storm was one of the strongest recorded in years. Such events are often associated with solar flares, sudden releases of energy from the Sun’s surface. These flares can launch streams of charged particles towards Earth, which interact with our planet’s magnetic field to produce the breathtaking light shows we know as auroras.

Auroras are not only a spectacle for the eyes but also a significant area of study for scientists. They provide invaluable insight into the Sun’s activity, the Earth’s magnetic field, and broader space weather patterns. As such, this recent, powerful geomagnetic storm and the historic display it produced have excited researchers worldwide.

While the pilot’s momentous, sky-high encounter with the Northern Lights may be a rare sight for most of us, it serves as a poignant reminder of the awe-inspiring phenomena that unfold in the cosmos beyond our everyday gaze. As we continue to explore and understand our place in the universe, such events paint a vibrant picture of the beauty, mystery, and scientific intrigue that space holds.

For more breathtaking photos and insights into this historic Northern Lights show, visit the original source here: [https://www.space.com/stargazing/auroras/the-most-incredible-display-of-aurora-ive-ever-seen-in-my-20-years-of-flying-pilot-captures-historic-northern-lights-show-from-37-000-feet-photos](https://www.space.com/stargazing/auroras/the-most-incredible-display-of-aurora-ive-ever-seen-in-my-20-years-of-flying-pilot-captures-historic-northern-lights-show-from-37-000-feet-photos).

Title: Northern Lights Set to Dance Across Ten States Tonight, Following a Powerful Cosmic Punch

Residents across ten U.S. states, spanning from Alaska to Maine, may be treated to a rare and spectacular sky show tonight. The Earth’s magnetic field, having absorbed a colossal punch from a Coronary Mass Ejection (CME), is expected to respond by ‘ringing like a bell.’ This celestial phenomenon will likely trigger the breathtaking display of the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis, usually secluded to higher latitudes.

A CME is a massive burst of solar wind and magnetic fields that erupts from the sun and races out into space. These cosmic gusts, when they collide with Earth’s magnetic field, can produce geomagnetic storms. These storms are the driving force behind the dazzling display of auroras, visible in the polar regions.

Today’s CME event is particularly strong, causing an intense reaction from our planet’s magnetic field. The Earth’s magnetic field’s ‘ringing’ is a metaphorical way to describe the energetic oscillations triggered by the solar storm’s impact. This ringing effect is likely to push the auroras further south than usual, much to the delight of stargazers who wouldn’t typically get to witness this natural light display.

The Northern Lights are a beautiful byproduct of these cosmic forces at play. When the charged particles from the sun interact with Earth’s magnetic field, they travel along the field lines towards the poles. As they collide with oxygen and nitrogen atoms in the Earth’s atmosphere, they create a stunning, dancing light show. The collision results in different colors, with green being the most common, and pink, red, yellow, blue, and violet also possible.

Residents of Alaska, North Dakota, Minnesota, Michigan, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Maine, and potentially even northern parts of Washington and Montana, are encouraged to look to the skies tonight. The show is predicted to be visible in these states depending on local weather conditions and light pollution levels.

Viewers are recommended to find a dark area away from city lights for the best viewing experience and to allow at least 20 minutes for their eyes to adjust to the darkness. While it’s not guaranteed that the auroras will be visible, the odds are favorable due to the strength of the CME impact.

This extraordinary event serves as a stark reminder of the powerful forces at work in our solar system and their beautiful manifestations. The Earth’s magnetic field not only shields us from harmful solar radiation but also stages the backdrop for one of nature’s most stunning performances.

As we continue to explore the cosmos, events like tonight’s remind us of the interconnectedness of our planet with the rest of the universe and the breathtaking beauty that such connections can bring.

Read more from the original source here: [Space.com](https://www.space.com/stargazing/auroras/northern-lights-may-be-visible-in-10-states-tonight-as-earths-magnetic-field-rings-like-a-bell-after-cme-impact).