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- 1Sunrise-III observatory reveals intricate solar magnetic structures●Stratospheric observatory Sunrise-III reveals intricate solar magnetic structures
The stratospheric observatory Sunrise-III, which flew above much of Earth's atmosphere on a balloon, has returned detailed images of the Sun's magnetic fields, revealing fine, intricate structures on the solar surface. Researchers from the international collaboration, including teams in Germany and Japan, report the highest-resolution views yet of magnetic features driving solar activity. The findings could improve understanding of solar flares and space weather that affect Earth.
- 2Never look directly at the sun, experts remind stargazers●Stargazing: Never look directly at the sun — unless it's from an Orbiting Solar Observatory
A stargazing column stresses the basic safety rule of astronomy: never look directly at the sun, since doing so can permanently damage your eyesight. The exception is the Orbiting Solar Observatory series of spacecraft, designed to study the sun from space without any risk to human eyes. The item mixes a reminder about safe viewing with a nod to the satellites that can observe the sun up close.