Astronomy Picture of the Day

Discover the cosmos! Each day a different image or photograph of our fascinating universe is featured, along with a brief explanation written by a professional astronomer.

2015 December 15

Colorful Arcs over Buenos Aires
Image Credit & Copyright: Sergio Montúfar (Planetario Ciudad de La Plata, pna)

 

Explanation: What are those colorful arcs in the sky? Like rainbows that are caused by rain, arcs of sunlight broken up into component colors can also result when ice crystals floating in Earth’s atmosphere act together as a gigantic prism. The top color arc is more typical as it is part of the 22 degree halo surrounding the Sun when hexagonal ice crystals refract sunlight between two of the six sides. More unusual, though, is the bottom color arc. Sometimes called a fire rainbow, this circumhorizon arc is also created by ice, not fire nor even rain. Here, a series of horizontal, thin, flat ice crystals in high cirrus clouds refract sunlight between the top and bottom faces toward the observer. These arcs only occur when the Sun is higher than 58 degrees above the horizon. The featured sky occurred to the northwest in the early afternoon last month over a street Diagonal of La Plata City, Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The Words of Confucius

If you look into your own heart, and you find nothing wrong there, what is there to worry about? What is there to fear?

Your Daily Influences
December 15, 2015

 

Five of Cups
That which was expected to bring joy may bring sorrow. Disillusionment with relationships. The loss of friends, partners and lovers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thurisaz
Thurisaz embodies the polarity of life and death and the struggle to keep them in balance. Expect conflict, hardship and obstacles, but be assured that remaining focused and in touch with your inner strengths will see you through whatever comes your way. This Rune may also represent protection from your enemies, which is never a bad thing.

 

 

Abraxas
A powerful force will rule you within aspect for the duration of a year. Your will be given few choices to make as most will be made for you. This force is malevolent in nature and the end result will be negative.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your Daily Influences represent events and challenges the current day will present for you. They may represent opportunities you should be ready to seize. Or they may forewarn you of problems you may be able to avoid or lessen. Generally it is best to use them as tips to help you manage your day and nothing more.

 

Your Past, Present, Future Reading

The three Animal Spirits in this reading represent your past, present and future situations. Your Past Animal Spirit represents an influence that still has considerable sway over your present situation. Your Present influence indicates a force that has powerful effect on your current situation. Your future card represents an influence that will come into effect sometime in the future.

That Which is Behind You

Buffalo
Buffalo has come snorting into your life today to bring a message of great hope. Buffalo sacrificed every part of his physical body to support those who hunted him—but he also gave his spirit. And, it’s that spirit of hope, abundance, and a bright future that he brings to you today. If you are experiencing a troubled journey, help is here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your Current Place

Turtle
Turtle carries his home on his back, and his question to you today is whether your life is weighed down with “things” that serve no purpose. Everyone loves buying stuff, but do you use shopping, spending, and the acquisition of “things” as a substitute for passion, conviction, commitment? It’s worth thinking about, isn’t it?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

That Which is before You

Ant
Ant is dutiful, patient, industrious and focused. If you ever put an obstacle in the middle of an ant trail, you’ll notice that ant will go over it, around it, or even under it—but ant will NOT let the obstacle drive him backwards. Above all, ant is a team player, and knows that if each member of the team does his assigned task, the team will succeed. Do you have goals that are best met by team effort? If so, get the other players off the bench and let them into your game.

 

Your Animal Spirit for Today
December 15, 2015 

Bear

Bear represents a time of reflection and stillness—a time of entering the inner cave of Self to contemplate life’s challenges. Bear often appears during times of confusion and unrest—those unsettling moments when you turn to everyone you know for answers—everyone except yourself. Go within, ask the hard questions—then listen.

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

Altruism

Altruism denotes the noble act of giving to those in need without the expectation of a return. The act of giving has been seen as one of humankind’s greatest attributes throughout history. It is honored in nearly every culture. To give is a gift to both those who receive and those who give. Giving is usually associated with addressing the material needs of others, but the gift given can take many forms such as wisdom or protection or simply a shoulder to cry on.

As a daily card, Altruism suggests there are those around you in need of things you can give them. It is a time for you to address the needs of another, or others without regard of profit or acknowledgement of your contribution.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gifts for Each Zodiac Sign

Stephanie Dempsey on the topics of zodiac, holidays, astrology

 

The holidays are here again — time to think up some fun gift ideas for your friends and family members. Try consulting the zodiac this year! Considering the astrological signs of those on your gift list is a great way to get your gift-giving spirit in gear.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Active Aries is always looking for ways to stay in shape, even during the winter months, so athletic equipment is usually a good choice. People born under this zodiac sign are also fond of the color red, so a cranberry scarf or a scarlet hat could win their favor. If romance is in the air, let Aries know that you put his or her needs first. Buy tickets for two to a sporting event you loathe, or make a playlist of an artist you can’t stand to win big points with your favorite Ram.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

Taurus appreciates any gift that appeals to his or her sensual side. A box of gourmet chocolates, a richly colored tapestry, or a soft cashmere blanket are all great options for Bulls. This sign also enjoys having money to play with, so a gift certificate to their favorite store is a welcome option. Always remember that quality is more important than quantity — Taurus would rather have a small bottle of expensive cologne than a carafe of the cheap stuff.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Quick-witted Gemini enjoys gifts that appeal to their sizable intellects. An engaging book is always welcome, as is a magazine subscription. This sign rules the hands, so some scented hand lotion or a sparkling ring might delight. Geminis also love to entertain, so a set of glassware might fit the bill. If you want to splurge on a special Twin, give them the latest cell phone or i-device, so they can keep in touch with their gazillion friends.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Sentimental Cancer loves gifts that have personal meaning. Handmade items always delight, whether it’s a finger painting, angora sweater, or mincemeat pie. This sign also has a special affinity for silver — a monogrammed hand mirror or picture frame would be very well received. Since Crabs have an affinity for liquids of all kinds, a special bottle of wine, a fancy cappuccino maker, or a shiny tea kettle are also good possibilities. And don’t forget that these Moon children love the domestic arts — a cookbook specializing in comfort food is another sure winner.

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)

Lions love gifts that make them look and feel terrific. Hair accessories, cosmetics and grooming items are all good choices for this image-conscious sign. Leos love drama, and enjoy presents that involve a bit of flair. Opera tickets, gold jewelry or animal print lingerie are right up this cat’s alley. Leos also love to gamble, so a sheaf of lottery tickets or a weekend getaway to the casino could make them purr with delight. When shopping for clothing, remember that Lions have a special affinity for red, gold and purple.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22)

Virgins love practical gifts … so avoid dust-catching baubles. A bread-making machine or a power drill would be welcome, but these folks are also known to pride themselves on their impeccable appearance. Scented soaps, lotions and shampoos made by an earth-friendly company might be just the ticket. Virgos are also incredibly organized and might appreciate a good watch or a leather-bound date book. Or try a health-conscious basket of organic foodstuffs.

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22)

Libras have a special affinity for music, and always appreciate a good new artist to add to their voluminous collection. If you want to do something really special for a Libra friend, splurge on a two concert tickets — this zodiac sign hates to do anything alone. Born beneath the sign of the Scales, they also need plenty of balance in their lives, so a pair of candlesticks or bookends might appeal. If you’re still stumped for ideas, have a lavish bouquet of red roses delivered accompanied by a loving handwritten note.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21)

Scorpios are secretive by nature and enjoy gifts that obscure their appearance in some way. A pair of designer sunglasses, a filmy scarf or a slouchy hat are all great choices for this sign. These mystery-lovers also enjoy moody, atmospheric stories. A collection of film noirs on DVD are sure to go over well with your favorite Scorpion. The rumors concerning this sign’s sexual appetite are happily true, so seductive lingerie would get plenty of use. Since Scorpios also like to get beneath the surface; a gift certificate for a deep-cleansing facial will be appreciated.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21)

As far as Archers are concerned, half the fun of getting gifts is ripping them open! If Sag doesn’t like a present, though, he or she will tell you outright. Avoid awkward scenes this holiday season by giving this outdoor enthusiast some camping equipment. Hiking boots or a waterproof parka would also be appropriate. These animal lovers adore any gift associated with their pets. A calendar filled with pictures of dogs or horses is sure to elicit a big smile. Finally, you can always feed this sign’s wanderlust with a comprehensive atlas.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19)

Career-oriented Capricorn always enjoys gifts that will boost their job status. A leather laptop carrier or monogrammed briefcase would be welcome. Contrary to popular belief, though, Goats aren’t all work and no play. This sign is blessed with a wicked sense of humor, so try the “The Office” or “Parks and Recreation” series on DVD. Capricorns also love luxurious presents they’d never buy for themselves, like a silk bathrobe.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18)

You never know what this unpredictable zodiac sign will be doing from moment to moment — one week it’s skydiving and the next it’s yoga! Still, this quirky sign always appreciates technological gadgets, whether it’s the latest i-device or gaming system. If you’d like to choose something a little more personal, why not make a photo album detailing all of your exploits with your favorite Aquarius? Aquarius may not show it, but they harbor a special fondness for their friends. Still stumped for ideas? A basket filled with brand new socks is both weird and practical enough for this sign, which rules the ankles.

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20)

These mystics love gifts of all kinds, but especially ones that help them escape the harsh realities of life. A bottle of champagne, a kaleidoscope, or a book of fairy tales will appeal to your Fishy friends. And because Pisces is a Water sign, it’s a good bet they’ll appreciate bath salts, foaming cleansers and shower gels. If you’d like to give something really special, a digital camera will make a big hit with this natural-born photographer. Looking for a romantic gift? Choose a gilt-edged volume of love poetry.

 

Tarot.com is a Daily Insight Group Site

 

 

 

 

 

Get a Jump on Tomorrow….

Your Horoscopes for Wednesday, December 16th

 

Aries

Your higher ideals are in strong focus today, dear Aries. You are less interested in professional goals now, and more concerned about your connection to the world through your community and friendships. The second half of the day brings a stronger need to pull back into yourself and more of a desire to sidestep the more demanding elements of daily life. It’s a good time to do a bit of reflection, looking back, and looking within. A Venus-Pluto aspect is on the horizon and helps you to do so with self-honesty. You might also gain new insight into a relationship or business move. With the Sun moving to the top of your solar chart next week, when your ambitions will move to the front burner, take advantage of opportunities to rest and sort out your priorities now.

Taurus

You can feel quite committed to what you’re doing today, dear Taurus, particularly in the morning. You’ll find that your energy is virtually limitless when you feel the magic of commitment. This afternoon’s Pisces Moon tends to bring out your more sociable side, as well as need for a sense of community and belongingness. We’re moving into a Venus-Pluto sextile that subtly intensifies your feelings, particularly related to a person or relationship, and this energy becomes stronger as the day advances. You’re framed well now, particularly as you show willingness to delve deeper than usual. Use this time to repair or enhance a relationship if needed.

Gemini

There is general ease with expressing your feelings and desires in the first half of the day, dear Gemini, and you’re likely to be spirited and enthusiastic although not necessarily directed. By early afternoon, you become increasingly tuned in to what you need to do. Responsibilities come into focus and if you’re generally on top of things, this can feel good. If you’ve been procrastinating, you might feel a little nervous until you get to work. A Venus-Pluto influence is approaching, and this helps you to cut out the fluff and focus. Even so, Venus-Pluto is about throwing yourself into what you love, and this can be distracting if what you love is not what you need to do! Relationships can be consuming now, in a mostly positive way.

Cancer

You continue to live life as an observer in the first half of the day, dear Cancer, which can be very useful in moderation. By early afternoon, you’re feeling ready to jump into action, although you might feel a little restless initially if you’re not sure where to channel your energy. As the day advances, focus becomes easier and more natural. This is a time for following a passion. Relationships can be strengthened through focus, presence, and involvement. You are able to make the best out of a situation, and to work for what you want.

Leo

With the Moon in your opposite sign until midday, dear Leo, you are in the position to see the other side of the story, and this can be eye-opening. Helping out a partner, or simply listening more intently to others’ wishes and needs, is the key to success and fulfillment. As the day advances, you’re inclined to seek out more depth in your interactions or meaning to your activities. You might prefer to be alone if you aren’t able to engage in meaningful conversations. There is good energy for throwing yourself into a project or activity that you enjoy, and this can be related to family and home.

Virgo

You continue to concern yourself with your daily affairs and small problems that need fixing in the first half of the day, dear Virgo. From early afternoon forward, you’re more likely to look for a wider perspective. There can be a tendency to want someone you trust and know well to take charge in small ways, as you may be a little exhausted from making all the decisions. Revealing conversations can occur today that give you a fresh new perspective on important people in your life, as well as practical problems, such as personal finances. Good energy is with you for throwing energy into a communications and/or creative project tonight and into tomorrow.

Libra

Going with the flow today comes quite naturally, dear Libra, although you may not feel especially productive until later. The second half of the day is strong for getting serious after several days of a wandering mind and difficulties focusing. Friends can also be supportive, backing you up or defending you, and possibly even pulling you out of a funk. From a feeling of lack or limitation with money or resources comes a stronger motivation to take care of what you have and for drawing up plans to improve your lot in life. Tonight and tomorrow are excellent for gaining a new understanding of your own resources and talents, and for personal presence and power. The more empowered you feel, the closer you get to your heart and your true desires.

Scorpio

Self-nurturing and playing it safe continues to be beneficial in the first half of the day, dear Scorpio. Boosting your inner self helps you to express yourself more creatively and from the heart as the Moon moves into your creative sector early afternoon. Even so, your sense of responsibility is building, so that you can better balance your life with productivity and play. We move towards a gently motivating influence as the day advances, and it’s especially strong for your personal magnetism and ability to reach a new level in a relationship.

Sagittarius

You may be feeling a little scattered early today, dear Sagittarius, but generally curious and interested. However, your passions and interests come into stronger focus as the day advances. By early afternoon, you’re likely to want to settle down, both mentally and physically. Immersing yourself in what truly pleases you comes naturally tonight and tomorrow. New insight into financial or security matters can emerge. You might also see a matter of the past more clearly, and find a way to put it behind you. Desires are especially intense as you have a tendency to keep them to yourself, so finding ways to release them, even in little ways, can work to your advantage.

Capricorn

You’re craving a steady pace in the first half of the day, dear Capricorn. As the day advances, your curiosity grows. By early afternoon, the Moon moves into a more harmonious position viz a viz your sign, and you’re in a busy but pleasant frame of mind. Let go of expectations and remind yourself that things don’t have to make sense right now – this kind of mental detachment can relieve a lot of pressure. If there’s a project that requires research, later today is strong for investing time and energy into it. Recent problems with friends might be dealt with now and handled in a practical yet effective way.

Aquarius

The Moon is in your sign until early afternoon, dear Aquarius, and your emotional needs are in strong focus. While these needs may seem urgent, remind yourself that you have time to fill them, and in fact, get to know yourself better in the process. Your emotions settle and life tends to calm down in the second half of the day. The pace is slower and this may be just what you need. Even so, it’s quite easy to get caught up in an enjoyable pursuit with Venus and Pluto moving towards a harmonious aspect. You can have fabulous business ideas under this influence that will follow you into tomorrow. You may be seeking out something meaningful to put your heart into, and have a good chance of finding it.

Pisces

The first half of the day continues to be another time best used for private or low-profile activities, dear Pisces. The Moon is in the sign just behind yours, and will be until early afternoon. This points to additional need for rest, relaxation, and reflection. As the day advances, your emotional enthusiasm grows, and a stronger sense of purpose or mission can fall into place. While emotional needs continue to demand your attention, you’re likely to be clearer about what they are and how to go about satisfying them.

If You Were Born Today, December 15

 

You are versatile, witty, and often quite impulsive. Mentally restless, you are curious and easily bored if left without new and stimulating things to do, or at least to talk about. You are quick to take action, and often jump into new endeavors blind, figuring that you can pick up any pieces later, if need be. You can be accident-prone as a result. Very good-hearted, you easily empathize with others and while you tend to keep some distance emotionally, you readily help out anyone in need. You are a great lover of debate and any kind of friendly competition.

Famous people born today: Tim Conway, Don Johnson, Adam Brody, Alex Cox.

 

Courtesy of Cafe Astrology

 

 

 

 

 

Your Daily Horoscopes for Tuesday, December 15th

 

Aries

You can be feeling more free to be yourself today, dear Aries, and this can be because others are not putting as much pressure on you or you are detaching yourself from it! You are projecting friendly qualities now, and you can quite naturally guide others towards healing through your own actions and ideas. You may be looking to a team or cooperative unions to accomplish a job. You could also be exploring ways to update technology in some way now, as you’re interested in making progress and perhaps feeling gently competitive. You might also simply feel the need to challenge yourself to move into unexplored territory.

Taurus

People are noticing your performance and actions more than usual today, dear Taurus, with the Moon at the top of your chart, but this can be felt as gently stimulating. Sometimes you need a little boost that reminds you to take better care of your life, and being slightly more accountable gives you that nudge. You can be feeling confident that others are seeing your worth and value, and if you aren’t feeling this, you can do things that make yourself proud, and this will, by extension, boost that confidence. This is a good day for gaining a little more clarity, which has been rather lacking in recent days, and for figuring out where you stand. It’s also strong for drawing up plans on a professional level.

Gemini

Good energy is with you for sharing your thoughts and knowledge with others, dear Gemini. While ego issues may have interfered in your relationships yesterday, today your natural approach to others is endearing and attracts positive feedback. Put progress and self-improvement at the top of your list now for best results. It’s also important to feed your need for movement, growth, and variety. Even if you are in the position to handle routine matters, your craving for more interesting experiences can be satisfied in small ways if you mix up your routine or take some pleasant detours from it, even if it means taking a walk or a drive in order to freshen up emotionally. You can better manage your feelings about recent pressures in your social life now.

Cancer

This is a good day for focusing on your inner world, dear Cancer, and for getting in touch with deeper feelings. If there’s something you need to change within that will improve your life, this can be a day when you’re especially open to facing fears and attacking problems from their root. Emotional satisfaction comes through applying yourself to something, digging deep under the surface of things, research, and depth experiences. You are more able to see what parts of your life or attitude are dysfunctional, and those that truly work for you. Intimate relationships can be in focus and can help take the pressure off from recent tension in home and career life.

Leo

There is good energy for your social life today, dear Leo, and for any situation that requires one-on-one relating, including counseling, meetings, and pairing up. A partner might demand some attention today, but not in an unpleasant manner. In fact, you’re inclined to enjoy showing your appreciation for the people in your life, who tend to help relieve some of the recent mental tension and pressures you’ve been experiencing. Roll with changes today. The key to success right now is to adapt to the needs of others, giving less attention to your own needs without ignoring them entirely. You might be able to solve a problem, particularly of the interpersonal variety, lay a debate to rest, or simply get a little closer to someone special.

Virgo

This is a good day for meeting your goals, dear Virgo, that involve daily life and routines. The inner workhorse emerges now, and can distract you from recent pressures and tensions. There can be a pleasant sense that the work you are doing at the moment is something that truly contributes to your future, in little ways. The important thing is that you’re seeing just how important the “little things” are. Focus might be on improving efficiency in your life or solving a problem that you’ve shelved. Take care of small issues that assume bigger proportions in your mind simply because they have been put off for too long. This will take the weight off.

Libra

The enthusiasm you express today, dear Libra, tends to inspire others to follow suit. The affection you’re putting out there is infectious, and others appreciate your unique vision and perspective. It’s a good time for following a passion or a new interest. Drawing upon your natural talents and creative bent comes naturally today, and is likely to be rewarding. Use them to grow your own confidence and well as others’ confidence in you. Some recent pressures, particularly in partnerships, can be managed today with some humor and a willingness to let go and move on. The ability to find something to learn in almost anything you experience now is the key to happiness and emotional satisfaction.

Scorpio

You could be feeling especially good about connecting with family or spending quiet time with familiar people today, dear Scorpio. This can lift your spirits and help you deal with any pressures that work or health have placed on you recently. You are in a frame of mind that is intimate and warm. This is a good day for looking within instead of worrying unduly about what others are doing. Keep things simple, familiar, secure, and comfortable, as you’re in need of some stability and a break from “hectic”. There are times for moving out of your comfort zone, and other times for gathering your strength, and today is more likely to be the latter.

Sagittarius

Confidence in your ideas, which can be quite brilliant right now, is building, dear Sagittarius, and you’re more willing to share them with others.  A friend or lover might provide you with feedback or may be a sounding board for you now, and this can have good results, leading you to important conclusions. Interpersonal conflicts tend to be superficial and temporary today, and restlessness is easily managed by mixing around your routine in order to help things hum along more smoothly. The Moon’s presence in Aquarius today complements you well, and can pull out your idealism or motivate you to reach out and make a connection.

Capricorn

You can feel quite productive today, dear Capricorn, putting worries aside in order to focus on your priorities. Consciously work on your patience and ability to concentrate on what matters in the present, as this will help iron out difficulties that come from pressure to perform or to meet responsibilities related to career or home life. This is a day for taking stock of your situation and your resources, and reconnecting with the things that matter the most to you. Look more closely at your current projects, talents, and resources, and aim to nurture and develop these things.

Aquarius

Your emotions are running very close to the surface with the Moon in your sign all day, dear Aquarius. You express yourself with natural ease. All eyes are on you, and you are more than willing to give them a show. It’s important to listen to your feelings, but not to be so overruled by them that you unwittingly create crises or emergencies. Recent mental tension and pressure can be eased today with a little humor or possibly even a soothing distraction. Your ability to let go and move on is vital to emotional satisfaction now, as it’s a wonderful way to take a load off your mind. Aim to wipe the slate clean and start fresh attitude wise with a new lunar month ahead.

Pisces

A certain level of anonymity becomes you today, dear Pisces, as working below the radar can help you to focus on your inner world, healing, and resting. It’s a time for laying low, connecting with those closest to you, and enjoying familiar surroundings and people. You seem to be more productive in privacy or when you remove yourself from the hub of activity. Even if you’re idle,, you’re doing something for yourself. Do what you can to take some time out to reflect or to simply recharge emotionally. While helping out others can feed a need and make you feel proud of yourself, too much can wear you down, so aim to find a balance.