Rare solar flare caused radiation in Earth's atmosphere to spike to highest levels in nearly 20 years, researchers say

A new cosmic map has reignited the debate surrounding the 'Hubble tension,' a discrepancy in the measurement of the universe's expansion rate. This development suggests that previous assumptions may need reevaluation, as researchers work to narrow down viable explanations for the observed inconsistencies.

The Geminid meteor shower has commenced, with its peak expected on the nights of December 13 and 14, 2025, offering a spectacular display of up to 150 shooting stars per hour in a moonless sky. This annual event is renowned for its vibrant and colorful meteors, captivating stargazers around the world.

Mercury, the innermost planet of the solar system, is currently visible in the morning sky, providing a rare opportunity for skywatchers to observe this elusive celestial body. This month marks an ideal time to catch a glimpse of Mercury, which is often difficult to spot due to its proximity to the Sun.

Rare images captured just minutes before X-class solar flares erupted reveal active sunspots, which subsequently led to stunning auroras observed in November 2025. These flares are significant solar events that can impact Earth’s atmosphere and magnetic field.

A recent launch on November 27 resulted in damage to Russia's only active launch pad at the Baikonur Cosmodrome, which is critical for crewed missions to the International Space Station (ISS). This incident raises questions about the timeline for resuming manned spaceflights from Russia, as the damaged infrastructure directly impacts their ability to send astronauts into orbit.

The Geminid meteor shower, known for its bright and colorful shooting stars, is currently active, having begun on December 4, and is expected to reach its peak on the night of December 13-14. This annual celestial event is one of the highlights of the meteor shower calendar, attracting skywatchers worldwide.

The EURECA spacecraft, which flew aboard the space shuttle Atlantis in 1992, has been highlighted in a recent X-ray view that reveals its intricate metal structure. This image, shared on December 4, 2025, showcases the technological advancements in imaging and analysis of space equipment.

The last full moon of 2025, known as the 'Cold Supermoon', is set to illuminate the autumn sky on December 4, offering a spectacular view for stargazers. This celestial event is characterized by the moon's proximity to Earth, making it appear larger and brighter than usual. Observers are encouraged to witness this stunning phenomenon, which is a highlight of the astronomical calendar.