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This Week in Space: Merging Black Holes, Rocket Milestones & Rare Skies
Your weekly dose of space updates—featuring rare atmospheric optics, major mission updates, and a breathtaking wallpaper from the depths of the cosmos.
Javier García
February 05, 2025
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Introduction
Welcome to another exciting week!
Content:
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Best image of the week
Anticrepuscular Rays: A Rainbow Fan over Spain
This week's standout image captures a rare phenomenon known as anticrepuscular rays, creating a stunning rainbow fan over Lekeitio in northern Spain. In this photograph, the Sun has just set behind the camera, while a vivid rainbow graces the eastern horizon. The anticrepuscular rays—sunlight streaming through gaps in clouds and scattering around the sky—appear to converge opposite the Sun, forming an optical illusion that complements the rainbow beautifully. Such a combination of atmospheric optics is uncommon, making this image both serene and surreal.
Image by Julene Eiguren
Last week news
January 27, 2025: Space Shuttle Columbia Disaster Anniversary
The space community commemorated the 22nd anniversary of the Space Shuttle Columbia disaster. On this day in 2003, Columbia disintegrated upon re-entry into Earth's atmosphere, leading to the tragic loss of all seven astronauts aboard. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks of space exploration and has profoundly influenced safety protocols in subsequent missions.
January 28, 2025: Astronaut Suni Williams Discusses Extended ISS Stay
NASA astronaut Suni Williams, who has been aboard the International Space Station since June 2024 due to delays in return missions, shared insights into her prolonged stay during a conversation with students. She mentioned the challenges of adapting to microgravity for an extended period and the anticipation of readjusting to Earth's gravity upon her return, now anticipated no earlier than late March 2025.
January 30, 2025: SpaceX Launches SpainSat NG-1 Satellite
SpaceX successfully launched the SpainSat NG-1 satellite into orbit. This next-generation satellite is designed to enhance secure communications for governmental and military applications, marking a significant advancement in Spain's space capabilities.
February 1, 2025: SpaceX's 200th Orbital Flight from Vandenberg
SpaceX achieved a milestone with its 200th orbital flight from Vandenberg Space Force Base, deploying 22 Starlink satellites into orbit. This launch underscores the company's rapid cadence and its commitment to expanding global satellite internet coverage.
February 2, 2025: Asteroid 2024 YR4 Monitored for Potential Earth Impact
Scientists are closely monitoring asteroid 2024 YR4, which has a 1.6% chance of impacting Earth on December 22, 2032. The asteroid, measuring between 130 and 300 feet in diameter, could cause significant regional damage if it were to collide with Earth. Ongoing observations aim to refine its trajectory and assess potential mitigation strategies.
Upcoming events
February 9, 2025: Mars Occulted by the Moon
Skywatchers are in for a treat as the Moon passes directly in front of Mars, an event known as an occultation. This celestial alignment will be visible in various parts of the world. Observers with clear skies can witness Mars disappearing behind the Moon and re-emerging later. It's advisable to use binoculars or a telescope for the best viewing experience.
February 26, 2025: Intuitive Machines' IM-2 Lunar Mission
Intuitive Machines is set to launch its IM-2 mission, deploying the Nova-C lander named Athena to the lunar south pole region. The mission aims to investigate the presence of water ice using the PRIME-1 drill and mass spectrometer. Additionally, the Micro-Nova Hopper will explore permanently shadowed craters, providing valuable data for future lunar exploration.
Mobile wallpaperToday's wallpaper is from NASA's Scientific Visualization Studio, featuring a simulation of two supermassive black holes on the verge of merging. This visualization showcases the dynamic light emitted from their surrounding environments as they spiral together. It's a captivating representation of one of the universe's most energetic events. You can download the mobile-formatted wallpaper directly from NASA's website |  |
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