Space Weather Facts & Forecast

Where is the Edge of the Solar System? Plus the Space Weather Forecast

The solar system is huge, and it turns out that defining where it ends is tricky! Depending on the definition we use, we can come up with wildly different estimates for its size. Listen to the show for an exploration of this fascinating topic! You'll also hear next week's space weather forecast, with some farside sunspots to keep an eye on.

Poles, Poles, and More Poles! How Does the Earth's Magnetic Field Work?

Today, I give an overview of the Earth's magnetic field. How is it formed and what does it do? Listen to find out! I also give the space weather forecast, in which the Sun may finally be waking from a long sleep!

How Does the Sun Burn?

The sun clearly produces enormous amounts of light and heat, which sustain life on our planet. How does it do this? Is it a big ball of fire in space? I answer that and more in this episode. Additionally, I give the space weather forecast, with a chance for activity this weekend and next week.

Space Weather and Solar Eclipses - How Are They Related?

On October 14, the annular solar eclipse I described in the last episode came and went. Hopefully you got to see it! Now, I'll be describing how solar eclipses affect space weather, and how they've been used to learn more about the sun. Also, I include the space weather forecast. The sun is surprisingly quiet this week!

Solar Eclipses - What They Are, and How to See the Next Two

In this show, learn what solar eclipses are and how to see two amazing upcoming ones! Here are the links to the useful pages I mention:
October 14, 2023: timeanddate.com/eclipse/solar/2023-october-14
April 8, 2024: timeanddate.com/eclipse/solar/2024-april-8
Eclipse day weather: eclipsophile.com

What is the Solar Radio Flux? And a Quiet Solar Forecast

The solar radio flux is an important value in space weather monitoring and helps gauge solar cycle strength. It also impacts HF radio. What is it? I explain in the show. Also, I give the space weather forecast, which is surprisingly quiet!

A Brief History of Space Weather Observation - And Important Podcast Updates!

Today, I'm diving into a short history of space weather observation and forecasting, from the 19th century to the present day.
Enjoy learning about space weather and keeping up to date on space weather news? Check out my new blog at https://space-weather-blog.blogspot.com/ !
The podcast release schedule is changing! Due to conflicting summer plans, shows will now come out on the third Saturday of the month.

Supernovas! An Overview - Plus the Space Weather Forecast

Supernovas are a hot topic right now in the world of astronomy, as a new one was just discovered in the Pinwheel Galaxy! Listen to find out all about supernovas, their potential effects on Earth, and even how to see the newest one! You'll also find the space weather forecast, with a pretty quiet outlook.
 

A Summary of Solar Radiation Storms

Solar radiation storms are yet another way space weather can impact humans and technology. How? All the answers are in the episode. I also include next week's space weather forecast, with a bit of a break from the constant activity we've had lately!

STEVE - The Aurora’s Purple Companion! And a Break From Solar Storms

Sometimes, not only the aurora glows in the night sky. STEVE is a phenomenon only discovered in 2016 that can also be found lighting up the upper atmosphere. What is it and how can you see it? Listen to find out! Included is next week's solar forecast, with the sun taking a break from major activity.