2013
Solar Cycle Update: Twin Peaks?
March 1, 2013
Something unexpected is happening on the sun. 2013 is supposed to be the year of Solar Max, but solar activity is much lower than expected. At least one leading forecaster expects the sun to rebound with a double-peaked maximum later this year.
Solar Variability and Terrestrial Climate
Jan. 8, 2013
A new report issued by the National Research Council (NRC), "The Effects of Solar Variability on Earth's Climate," lays out some of the surprisingly complex ways that solar activity can make itself felt on our planet.
Solar Wind Energy Source Discovered
March 8, 2013
Using data from an aging NASA spacecraft, researchers have found signs of an energy source in the solar wind that has caught the attention of fusion researchers.
Strange Flames on the ISS
June 18, 2013
Researchers experimenting with flames onboard the International Space Station have produced a strange, cool-burning form of fire that could help improve the efficiency of auto engines.
Sunset Comet
March 15, 2013
Comet Pan-STARRS has survived its encounter with the sun and is now emerging from twilight in the sunset skies of the northern hemisphere. A NASA spacecraft has beamed back spectacular pictures of a "wild and ragged" tail behind the comet's active nucleus.
The UN Braces for Stormy Space Weather
Feb. 13, 2013
Forecasters say solar maximum is due in 2013. To prepare, the UN is organizing an international response to stormy space weather.
Universe Older Than Previously Thought
March 21, 2013
The European Space Agency's Planck spacecraft has released the most detailed map ever made of the oldest light in the universe, revealing new information about its age, contents and origins.
Van Allen Probes Discover a New Radiation Belt
Feb. 28, 2013
Earth's radiation belts were one of the first discoveries of the Space Age. A new finding published in today's issue of Science shows that we still have much to learn about them. NASA's twin Van Allen Probes, launched just last August, have revealed a previously unknown third radiation belt around Earth.
What Exploded over Russia?
Feb. 26, 2013
Two weeks after an asteroid exploded over Russia's Ural mountains, scientists are making progress understanding the origin and make-up of the unexpected space rock. This week's ScienceCast presents their latest results.