NASA smoothing out pesky panelsThis view of the nose and part of the crew cabin of Space Shuttle Discovery was provided by an Expedition 14 crewmember during a back-flip performed by the approaching STS-116 crew to the International Space Station on Dec. 11, 2006. Credit: NASA.
A newfound 75-foot crater. Wispy dark rays and dark, annular (nearly-circular) zones surround the crater, while several chains of dark spots formed by secondary impact radiate away for hundreds of meters from the tiny crater. Credit: NASA/JPL/Malin Space Science Systems.
Solar storm headed for EarthSPACE.com) -- Space weather forecasters revised their predictions for storminess after a major flare erupted on the sun overnight threatening damage to communication systems and power grids while offering up the wonder of Northern Lights.
The storm is expected to generate aurora or Northern Lights, as far south as the northern United States Thursday night.
Just a reminder that this year's best
Meteor Shower peaks tonight, the Geminid meteor shower, a reliable annual display, peaks tonight and into the pre-dawn. For skywatchers with dark, clear skies, this dazzling display should produce up to 120 meteors per hour.
The best time to watch is tonight or anytime between midnight and dawn Thursday.