Jul 8, 2009

Blue Moon over Iran and Progress 33

Space Weather News for July 8, 2009


WHAT'S FOLLOWING THE ISS? Sky watchers are reporting a "mysterious satellite" following the International Space Station (ISS). It trails the ISS by about one minute, relatively faint, but definitely there.

Mystery solved: The follower is Progress 33, a Russian supply ship. On July 12, it will come within meters of the space station to test a new automated docking system. Check the Simple Satellite Tracker for flyby times and get two spaceships for the price of one.

BLUE MOON OVER IRAN: Blue moons are not a myth. This week, sky watchers in Iran have seen them appear in the night sky. The full Moon is turning blue because of a major dust storm blowing across the Middle East. Today's edition of SpaceWeather News features space-based images of the behemoth storm, the blue moons it is causing, and an explanation of the phenomenon.

SUNSPOT UPDATE: The first big sunspot of new Solar Cycle 24 is growing again. So far, sunspot 1024 poses no threat for major eruptions, but it is a big, photogenic target for backyard solar telescopes. Readers who would like instant notification of solar flares and geomagnetic storms can get them by signing up for SpaceWeather PHONE.

1 comment:

  1. Thanks for the post. Very interesting. I never knew about Progress 33.

    ReplyDelete

Be courteous -- No ads -- including for astrological, Tarot, or psychic readings and consultations. Otherwise, your on-topic comments are always welcomed in this Political Astrology arena, and are fully moderated when I have the time.

And please remember that your kind Shares and Likes are always much appreciated!

But here's a new notice: Abuse of courtesy has occurred. Therefore I will no longer publish comments from or by "Anonymous." No exceptions, no matter brilliant the insights therein. Either name yourself or keep your comments to yourself.

Jude

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.