Today, June 20, 2025, is the summer solstice—the Northern Hemisphere’s longest day of the year and the official start of astronomical summer. It’s when the sun reaches its highest point in the sky, giving us the most daylight hours before the days gradually start getting shorter again.

Editor’s Note: The solstice isn’t just a celestial event—it’s a cultural touchstone, marking everything from ancient traditions to modern-day celebrations. For many, it’s a reminder to soak up the extra sunshine, plan outdoor gatherings, or just appreciate the rhythm of the seasons. Plus, it’s a neat excuse to geek out about how Earth’s tilt shapes our lives.

The sun just fired off a massive X1.9-class solar flare from its active region 4114—and it wasn’t just a light show. The eruption was powerful enough to disrupt radio signals across the Pacific, with footage capturing the dramatic burst. This isn’t the first time this sunspot has acted up, but it’s a stark reminder of how solar activity can mess with our tech down here on Earth.

Editor’s Note: Solar flares might seem like distant space drama, but when they’re strong enough (like this X-class one), they can knock out communications, GPS, and even power grids. For pilots, sailors, or emergency teams relying on radio, this kind of disruption is more than an inconvenience—it’s a real operational headache. Plus, with the sun ramping up toward its peak activity cycle, we’ll probably see more of these in the coming months. Time to keep an eye on the skies—and our gadgets.

A brand-new celestial event is lighting up the night sky—a never-before-seen nova called V462 Lupi has erupted in the constellation Lupus, blazing 4 million times brighter than before. The best part? You don’t need a telescope to spot it; if you’re in North America, just look up.

Early risers on June 19 will catch a celestial treat—the moon sharing the predawn sky with Saturn and Neptune. This cosmic meetup happens just hours after the moon reaches its third quarter phase, making it a great chance to spot these distant planets without needing a telescope (though Neptune might still be a faint challenge).

Grab your coats and cameras—tonight might be your chance to see the northern lights without leaving the U.S. A surge in geomagnetic activity means the auroras could light up skies from Alaska all the way to New Hampshire, with nine states potentially in the viewing zone. It’s a rare treat for folks who don’t usually get front-row seats to this celestial light show.

This week, skywatchers are in for a treat as Mars joins the Spring Triangle—a bright trio of stars (Arcturus, Spica, and Regulus) that dominate the spring and summer night sky. You’ll be able to spot the red planet nestled among these stars until mid-September, adding an extra sparkle to an already stunning celestial lineup. The article gives tips on when and where to look for this rare alignment.