‘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

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).

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

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).

A Cosmic Volcanic Eruption: The Rebirth of a Black Hole across a Million Light-Years of Space

Title: A Cosmic Volcanic Eruption: The Rebirth of a Black Hole across a Million Light-Years of Space

Imagine a volcano that has lain dormant for ages suddenly erupting with unimaginable force, enough to carve out structures that stretch across nearly a million light-years. This isn’t the plot of a science fiction movie, but real-life cosmic phenomena captured by astrophysicists.

A previously dormant black hole, the densest object in the universe, has flared back to life in an eruption of energy so massive it’s reshaping the space around it. It’s a display of cosmic fireworks that has left scientists breathless.

Black holes, these mysterious cosmic entities, are known for their intense gravitational pull, capable of drawing in everything, including light. Often, they remain quiet for ages, but every once in a while, one comes back to life, erupting in a spectacular display of energy.

This reborn black hole is acting like a cosmic volcano, spewing out jets of energy and particles. The eruption is so massive that it is carving out structures stretching nearly a million light-years across space. To put it in perspective, one light-year measures about six trillion miles. The scale of this eruption is almost beyond comprehension.

“This is like watching a cosmic volcano erupt again after ages of calm,” said one of the scientists involved in the study. What’s truly remarkable about this phenomenon is not just its size but also its impact. The energy eruption from the black hole is powerful enough to influence the formation and evolution of galaxies.

The reborn black hole was detected by an international team of astronomers using the MeerKAT radio telescope in South Africa. The telescope, known for its exceptional sensitivity and resolution, was able to capture the black hole’s eruption in unprecedented detail.

The discovery of the reborn black hole is not just a spectacular cosmic show. It also provides valuable insights into the life cycle of black holes and their influence on the universe. Scientists believe that by studying these enormous energy eruptions, they can better understand the dynamics of black holes and how they shape the cosmos.

The black hole’s rebirth and its resulting cosmic eruption remind us of the incredible dynamism of the universe. Just as on Earth, where volcanoes can lie dormant for centuries before bursting into life, black holes too can transition from periods of calm to violent activity.

As we continue to explore the mysteries of the universe, each discovery brings us a step closer to understanding the complex and beautiful cosmic dance of galaxies, stars, and black holes. This reborn black hole and its million light-year eruption is just another reminder of the awe-inspiring scale and power of the universe we inhabit.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/astronomy/black-holes/reborn-black-hole-seen-erupting-across-1-million-light-years-of-space-like-a-cosmic-volcano](https://www.space.com/astronomy/black-holes/reborn-black-hole-seen-erupting-across-1-million-light-years-of-space-like-a-cosmic-volcano).

Artemis 2 Rocket Rollout Latest News: NASA Ready to Move Giant Moon Rocket

Title: Artemis 2 Rocket Rollout Latest News: NASA Ready to Move Giant Moon Rocket

NASA is making giant strides towards the moon with the Artemis 2, the next big thing in space exploration. As of Friday, January 16, 2026, the American space agency is ready to move this mammoth moon rocket to the launch pad, marking a significant milestone in NASA’s Artemis program.

The Artemis 2 mission is the second in a series of increasingly complex missions that will enable human exploration to the Moon and Mars. This mission is unique as it will be the first crewed mission of NASA’s Artemis program. The Artemis Program aims to land “the first woman and the next man” on the Moon by 2024, followed by a sustainable human presence by 2028.

The rollout of the Artemis 2 rocket to the launch pad is a colossal logistical operation. The rocket, standing at a towering 322 feet (98 meters) tall, is transported from the Vehicle Assembly Building at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida to the launch pad. This journey, although just 4 miles (6.4 kilometers), is a slow and cautious affair, taking several hours to complete.

The rocket’s move to the launch pad is a significant step toward its eventual launch, as it allows for final testing and fueling operations to take place. Once at the pad, the Artemis 2 will undergo a series of checks and tests to ensure it is ready for the monumental journey ahead.

Artemis 2 will be the first crewed mission beyond low Earth orbit since the Apollo 17 mission in 1972. The mission is set to carry a crew of astronauts around the Moon in a 10-day mission, but they will not land. This mission is designed to test the capabilities of the Orion spacecraft and the Space Launch System rocket before the Artemis 3 mission, which aims to land astronauts on the lunar surface.

As part of the Artemis program, NASA is also working on the Gateway, a small spaceship that will orbit the Moon, provide living quarters for astronauts, a lab for science and research, and ports for visiting spacecraft. This will enable astronauts to live and work in lunar orbit and make regular trips to the lunar surface.

As we look forward to the Artemis 2’s rollout to the launch pad, we are reminded of the exciting future that lies ahead. This isn’t just a giant leap for NASA; it’s a giant leap for humankind. The Artemis program holds the promise of opening a new chapter in human space exploration, and the rollout of the Artemis 2 rocket is a significant step in that direction.

Stay tuned for more updates on the Artemis 2 moon rocket rollout and the exciting future of space exploration.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/news/live/artemis-2-nasa-moon-rocket-rollout-jan-16-2026](https://www.space.com/news/live/artemis-2-nasa-moon-rocket-rollout-jan-16-2026).

NASA’s ‘Super Hubble’: A Giant Leap in the Search for Alien Life

Title: NASA’s ‘Super Hubble’: A Giant Leap in the Search for Alien Life

The search for extraterrestrial life is about to move into high gear. NASA, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, has announced funding for advanced technology to equip a forthcoming ‘Super Hubble’ telescope. This ambitious project, slated to combine the might of NASA’s most powerful space observatories, represents a significant step forward in the quest for answers to one of humanity’s oldest questions: are we alone in the universe?

“We intend to move with urgency,” said a spokesperson from NASA, underlining the space agency’s commitment to this groundbreaking endeavor. While the hunt for alien life has been ongoing for decades, the sheer scale and technological prowess of this project marks a new chapter in space exploration.

Named in homage to the famous Hubble Space Telescope, which has been providing scientists with stunning images and invaluable data since its launch in 1990, the ‘Super Hubble’ signifies an exciting leap forward. The telescope will incorporate technological advancements from several of NASA’s most successful space telescopes, leveraging their combined power to peer deeper into the cosmos than ever before.

The search for life beyond Earth has thus far been a tantalizing endeavor, filled with promising signs yet devoid of definitive evidence. The possibilities, however, are almost endless. With an estimated 100 billion galaxies in the observable universe, each brimming with stars and their orbiting planets, the potential for life-sustaining environments is vast.

The ‘Super Hubble’ is being designed to detect these telltale signs of life. By observing the atmospheres of distant exoplanets, it can identify the presence of specific gases like oxygen and methane – key indicators of potential biological activity. If such gases are detected in an exoplanet’s atmosphere, it could suggest the presence of life forms.

Despite the daunting challenge that this mission represents, NASA remains undeterred. The agency’s investment in this new technology reflects its dedication to pushing the boundaries of human knowledge and exploration. The development of the ‘Super Hubble’ will undoubtedly spur scientific innovation, and perhaps even redefine our understanding of life’s place in the universe.

While the details of the ‘Super Hubble’ and its timeline remain under wraps, the anticipation within the scientific community and general public is palpable. The implications of discovering extraterrestrial life are immense, both scientifically and philosophically. Should the ‘Super Hubble’ find what it’s looking for, it would constitute one of the most significant discoveries in human history.

As the ‘Super Hubble’ project moves forward, we can only look to the stars with a renewed sense of wonder and optimism. In the words of famed astronomer Carl Sagan, “Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known.” Thanks to NASA and the forthcoming ‘Super Hubble’, we may be on the brink of knowing the incredible.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/space-exploration/search-for-life/nasa-funds-new-tech-for-upcoming-super-hubble-to-search-for-alien-life-on-other-planets-we-intend-to-move-with-urgency](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/search-for-life/nasa-funds-new-tech-for-upcoming-super-hubble-to-search-for-alien-life-on-other-planets-we-intend-to-move-with-urgency).

A Night of Astronomical Wonders at America’s Largest Public Telescope Collection in Oregon

Title: A Night of Astronomical Wonders at America’s Largest Public Telescope Collection in Oregon

In the heart of Oregon’s high desert, south of Bend’s outdoor playland, lies a Pacific Northwest gem: the largest collection of public telescopes in the United States. A recent visit to this astronomical sanctuary revealed a breathtaking spectacle that left an indelible impression of the universe’s grandeur.

As twilight descended on the desert, the final streaks of daylight surrendered to the encroaching darkness. The night sky, once a canvas of subtle hues, transformed into a sea of inky black, punctuated by the twinkling of countless celestial bodies. It was against this backdrop that the true magic began to unfold.

The Oregon Observatory, home to the largest collection of public telescopes in the country, offers a unique window into the cosmos. It is an enchanting place where space enthusiasts can gaze at celestial wonders that include distant galaxies, nebulous star clusters, and elusive planets in our solar system.

The observatory’s location in the high desert of Oregon is no accident. The dry arid environment is optimal for stargazing as it reduces atmospheric distortion that can hinder the view of the cosmos. Additionally, the observatory’s remote location minimizes light pollution, a common obstacle in urban areas that can wash out the night sky’s brilliance.

On this winter evening, the sky was exceptionally clear, providing a spectacular panorama of the universe. The observatory’s powerful telescopes offered a front-row seat to this cosmic show. Through the eyepiece, one could observe Jupiter’s swirling storms, Saturn’s iconic rings, and the luminous Andromeda galaxy, the closest spiral galaxy to the Milky Way.

But the spectacle wasn’t limited to what could be seen through the telescopes. The dark skies themselves offered a stunning vista. The Milky Way, often obscured in more populated areas, stretched across the sky like a river of light, while shooting stars traced luminous paths in the darkness.

Visitors to the observatory are not just passive observers; they are active participants in their cosmic journey. The knowledgeable staff and volunteers are on hand to guide visitors through the different telescopes and to explain the various celestial bodies viewable each night. They also share fascinating insights into the latest discoveries and advancements in the field of astronomy.

The experience at the Oregon Observatory offers a stark reminder of the universe’s vastness and the earth’s small place within it. It is an experience that resonates long after leaving the high desert, a memory of a night spent under the stars, lost in the infinite cosmos.

For those with a passion for the stars or simply a curiosity about what lies beyond our planet, a visit to the Oregon Observatory is a must. The dark skies of Oregon’s high desert await to reveal their secrets and to remind us that we are, indeed, made of star stuff.

Read more from the original source here: [Space.com](https://www.space.com/astronomy/i-visited-the-largest-collection-of-public-telescopes-in-the-us-in-oregons-high-desert-and-the-dark-skies-blew-me-away).

SpaceX to Propel NASA’s Pandora Satellite to Study Alien Worlds

Title: SpaceX to Propel NASA’s Pandora Satellite to Study Alien Worlds

SpaceX, the revolutionary private space exploration company, is set to launch NASA’s Pandora exoplanet-studying satellite this coming Sunday, January 11, at 8:19 a.m. ET, marking a significant milestone in our quest to understand the universe better.

Pandora, an ambitious project of NASA, is designed to scrutinize exoplanets – planets that orbit stars outside our solar system. This pioneering satellite aims to provide unprecedented insights into these alien worlds, potentially paving the way for the discovery of life beyond Earth.

SpaceX, founded by visionary entrepreneur Elon Musk, has been instrumental in pushing the boundaries of space exploration. The upcoming launch, taking place at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, will utilize SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket. This reusable rocket has been a game-changer in reducing the cost of space travel, making ambitious missions like Pandora possible on a more frequent basis.

The Pandora mission seeks to unlock the secrets of exoplanets, which could hold the answers to some of our most profound questions about the universe. Understanding their composition, atmosphere, and potential habitability will bring us a step closer to answering the age-old question: Are we alone in the universe?

Pandora will employ cutting-edge technology to analyze the light from distant stars as it passes through the atmospheres of exoplanets. This method, known as transit spectroscopy, will enable scientists to determine the chemical makeup of these alien atmospheres, providing vital clues about the planets’ potential to support life.

In addition to its scientific objectives, the Pandora mission underscores the burgeoning partnership between NASA and private space companies. SpaceX’s involvement in this mission further cements its role as a significant player in the new era of space exploration.

Despite the early morning launch time, space enthusiasts worldwide are eagerly looking forward to the liftoff. For those unable to watch the launch in person, SpaceX will be live streaming the event on their official website, providing an opportunity for everyone to witness this exciting chapter in space exploration.

The launch of Pandora is not just about reaching out to distant worlds; it is also about bringing a sense of wonder and exploration closer to home. As we venture further into the cosmos, we continue to learn more about our place in it. This mission is a testament to human curiosity and our relentless pursuit of knowledge.

Join us on Sunday, January 11, as we watch history unfold and embark on a new journey to understand the mysteries of the universe. Liftoff is scheduled for 8:19 a.m. ET. Let’s keep our fingers crossed for clear skies and a successful launch!

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/watch-spacex-launch-nasas-pandora-exoplanet-studying-satellite-on-jan-11](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/launches-spacecraft/watch-spacex-launch-nasas-pandora-exoplanet-studying-satellite-on-jan-11).

Space News – January 09, 2026

Despite the recent medical evacuation of SpaceX’s Crew-11 astronauts from the International Space Station (ISS), the upcoming Artemis 2 moon mission should proceed without disruption, according to NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman.

The unexpected necessity for a medical evacuation from the ISS might seem like a major setback for NASA’s ambitious space exploration plans. However, Isaacman is confident in the robustness of NASA’s mission scheduling and the resilience of the Artemis program.

The Artemis 2 mission is a significant step in NASA’s broader Artemis program, aimed at returning humans to the moon by 2024 and establishing a sustainable human presence there by the end of the decade. The mission, set to launch in 2023, will be the first crewed mission of the Artemis program and will see astronauts orbit the moon, but not land.

The evacuation of Crew-11 astronauts from the ISS was carried out as a precautionary measure in response to an undisclosed medical condition of one of the crew members. The crew was returned safely to Earth aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft, showcasing the effective emergency response capabilities of NASA and SpaceX in maintaining astronaut safety.

Isaacman’s reassurance comes as a relief to those anticipating the Artemis 2 mission. The Artemis program represents a significant investment in both resources and public interest, and any major disruptions could have far-reaching effects. The program is seen as a crucial step in the ongoing exploration of our solar system, and aims to pave the way for future manned missions to Mars.

The Artemis program, named after the twin sister of the Greek god Apollo, is designed to learn more about the moon and its resources, and how these can be used for future space exploration. It also aims to test new technologies and strategies for human exploration beyond Earth’s orbit, including the eventual goal of reaching Mars.

The Artemis 2 mission itself will carry a crew of four astronauts on a multi-day journey around the moon. The mission will test the spacecraft’s critical systems under the deep space conditions of the lunar environment. This mission will also lay the groundwork for Artemis 3, which aims to land “the first woman and the next man” on the moon.

While the evacuation of the ISS crew may have briefly captured the world’s attention, it’s clear that NASA’s gaze remains firmly fixed on the moon. Isaacman’s reassurance underscores the agency’s commitment to its lunar ambitions and the determination to make the Artemis program a success.

As we move closer to the launch of Artemis 2, the world watches with bated breath, ready to witness the next giant leap for mankind in the exploration of our solar system.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/space-exploration/international-space-station/iss-astronaut-evacuation-shouldnt-interfere-with-upcoming-artemis-2-moon-mission-nasa-chief-says.](https://www.space.com/space-exploration/international-space-station/iss-astronaut-evacuation-shouldnt-interfere-with-upcoming-artemis-2-moon-mission-nasa-chief-says.)

Vera Rubin Observatory Discovers Record-Breaking Superfast Asteroid

Title: Vera Rubin Observatory Discovers Record-Breaking Superfast Asteroid

The Vera Rubin Observatory, an astronomical observatory located in Chile, has made a groundbreaking discovery by spotting the fastest-spinning large asteroid ever found. The observatory has identified a total of 19 new “superfast rotator” asteroids, redefining our understanding of the cosmos.

The discovery of these superfast rotators adds a new dimension to our knowledge of the asteroid belt – a region of space located between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter, teeming with remnants from the early solar system. The highlight of these discoveries is a large space rock, now holding the record as the fastest-spinning big asteroid ever found.

The asteroids that usually cross our radar are slow rotators, taking hours to complete a single rotation. However, these newly discovered fast-spinning asteroids are a different breed altogether. They flaunt their speed, spinning around their axis in mere minutes. The observation of such quick rotation is a rare phenomenon, especially for large asteroids, making this discovery all the more significant.

The record-breaking asteroid has been named as the “fastest-spinning big space rock,” indicating its unique characteristic. The speed at which this asteroid spins is so remarkable that it challenges the limits of what scientists thought was possible. The discovery of these superfast rotators is changing the face of asteroid research, providing new insights into the formation and evolution of these celestial bodies.

The discovery was made possible by the state-of-the-art capabilities of the Vera Rubin Observatory. The observatory is equipped with the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (LSST), one of the world’s most powerful telescopes. The LSST is capable of capturing images of the entire available sky every few nights, making it an invaluable tool for spotting and tracking asteroids.

The Vera Rubin Observatory’s discovery of these superfast rotators presents a fascinating opportunity to study these celestial objects in a new light. This discovery could potentially uncover hidden secrets about the early days of our solar system. It might also provide crucial information to help protect our planet from potential asteroid impacts.

The discovery of these superfast rotators comes as a reminder of the awe-inspiring and ever-changing universe we inhabit. As scientists continue to investigate these fast-spinning celestial bodies, we are once again reminded that space exploration continues to offer unexpected and thrilling discoveries.

The Vera Rubin Observatory’s groundbreaking discovery opens a new chapter in the study of asteroids. It’s a testament to the power of human curiosity and the relentless pursuit of knowledge about our universe. This discovery underscores the importance of research in deep space exploration, and the potential it holds for unveiling the mysteries of our cosmic backyard.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/astronomy/asteroids/vera-rubin-observatory-discovers-the-fastest-spinning-asteroid-ever-and-its-huge](https://www.space.com/astronomy/asteroids/vera-rubin-observatory-discovers-the-fastest-spinning-asteroid-ever-and-its-huge).

Venus Aligns with Sun and Earth in a Superior Solar Conjunction: Here’s What You Should Know

Title: Venus Aligns with Sun and Earth in a Superior Solar Conjunction: Here’s What You Should Know

In a spectacular celestial event today, Venus, the second planet from the sun, will reach a superior solar conjunction. This astronomical event occurs when Venus’ orbit carries it into alignment with the sun and Earth. The occurrence is a pretty big deal for both astronomers and sky gazers alike and here’s why.

A superior solar conjunction of Venus takes place when the planet moves directly behind the sun from Earth’s perspective. This is different from an inferior conjunction, where Venus aligns between the Earth and sun. In an inferior conjunction, Venus is at its closest point to Earth; however, it is usually obscured by the sun’s brilliance.

On the other hand, a superior conjunction like the one happening today places Venus at its farthest point from Earth, making it difficult for us to observe the planet. In fact, for a period of several days around the conjunction, Venus will be invisible to the naked eye due to the sun’s glare.

Despite the difficulty in observing Venus during this time, the superior conjunction is a critical time for scientists. This is because the alignment of Venus, Earth, and the sun allows for essential measurements and observations, aiding in gaining better insights into Venus’ atmosphere and its interaction with solar radiation. This data is crucial in understanding not only Venus but also the potential implications for other planets within and beyond our solar system.

For amateur sky watchers, the superior conjunction also marks the transition of Venus from the evening sky to the morning sky. So, if you’ve been seeing Venus in the western sky after sunset, you’ll have to wake up early from now on to catch a glimpse of this brilliant planet. It will take several weeks for Venus to become visible in the morning sky as it moves away from the sun’s glare, and when it does, it will appear as a ‘morning star’.

While you won’t be able to see Venus during the conjunction, don’t lose heart. The superior solar conjunction of Venus is a reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of our solar system. It’s a testament to the intricate dance of celestial bodies that encourages us to look up and marvel at the cosmic wonders that surround us.

For those interested in space exploration and celestial events, mark your calendar for the next Venus’ superior conjunction scheduled to occur in January 2028. Until then, keep your eyes on the skies and watch as planets, stars, and other celestial objects continue their celestial ballet.

Read more from the original source here: [https://www.space.com/stargazing/venus-reaches-solar-conjunction-jan-2026](https://www.space.com/stargazing/venus-reaches-solar-conjunction-jan-2026).