Astronomy Picture of the Day – Dark Dunes on Mars

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.

2016 July 20

Dark Dunes on Mars (Horizontally Compressed)
Image Credit: NASA, JPL-Caltech, MSSS

 

Explanation: How does wind affect sand on Mars? To help find out if it differs significantly from Earth, the robotic Curiosity rover on Mars was directed to investigate the dark Namib Dune in the Bagnold Dune Field in Gale Crater. Namib is the first active sand dune investigated up close outside of planet Earth. Wind-created ripples on Earth-bound sand dunes appear similar to ripples on Mars, with one exception. The larger peaks visible on dark Namib dune, averaging about 3 meters apart, are of a type seen only underwater on Earth. They appear to arise on Mars because of the way the thin Martian wind drags dark sand particles. The featured image was taken last December and is horizontally compressed to show context. In the distance, a normal dusty Martian landscape slopes up in light orange, while a rock-strewn landscape is visible on the far right. Curiosity unexpectedly went into safe mode in early July, but it was brought out last week and has now resumed exploring the once lake-filled interior of Gale Crater for further signs that it was once habitable by microbial life.

Earth Sky News for July 20: Sun enters Cancer on July 20

Sun enters Cancer on July 20

 

Article published on EarthSky

The Wisdom of Buddha

The Wisdom of Buddha

All that we are is the result of what we have thought. If a man speaks or acts with an evil thought, pain follows him. If a man speaks or acts with a pure thought, happiness follows him, like a shadow that never leaves him.

Your Daily Influences for July 20, 2016

Your Daily Influences
July 20, 2016 

 

Seven of Cups
Deception, an overactive imagination, and the illusion of success. Strengths are not consolidated to work as one.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fehu
Fehu reversed represents material stagnation, possibly poverty as well as infertility.

 

 

 

 

Sagittarius the Archer
This aspect of your life will be strongly influenced by a person who is blindly optimistic, careless, irresponsible, superficial, tactless and restless. This is a person who makes you nervous.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Your Daily Charm for July 20 is The Heart

Your Daily Charm for Today

Today’s Meaning:
A course of events that cannot be altered has been set in motion within this aspect. Accept whatever happens in the near future and do not waste your time fretting about it–you can do nothing.

General Description:
This was a favourite charm in Egypt, worn in order to frustrate magicians, sorcerers and evil wishers from bewitching the wearer and stealing the soul from the heart; for it was the general belief that if the soul left the heart, the body would soon fade away and perish. The ancient Egyptians also believed that, after death, the heart was taken, in the underworld, and weighed against the symbols of the law; if found perfect, it was restored to the body, which at once came to life again and enjoyed everlasting felicity

Your Ancient Symbol Card for July 20 is The Sword

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

The Sword



The Sword is a a call to action. It indicates challenges are before you and to attain your goals you will have to address them. The Sword does not suggest rash or underhanded behavior on your part. Indeed, while actions indicated by The Sword are decisive, they are based on the power of your wisdom and ethics. The strength of The Sword lies in the moral purity of your actions.

As a daily card, The Sword suggest a time in which you will face external challenges to attaining your goals. These trials are likely to come from a person or persons who stand to gain from your loss or delays in you moving forward. You can expect underhanded play and surprises. Fortunately your position is far stronger than those who scheme to usurp you. Address challenges as they arise and all will be well.

Your Daily Influences for July 20 Using the Minchiate Tarot Deck

Your Daily Influences for Today

 

Tarot Influence:

Knight of Cups

Grace mixed with laziness. Preoccupation with sensual fantasies. Look for a message, opportunity or invitation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Astrological Influence

Libra Reversed

Libra reversed denotes a lack of fairness, imbalance.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Element Influence

Fire

Fire denotes the unleashing of raw energy and change. The status quo may be about to crumble, but will be replaced something better. Fire also provides light to those in the dark and warmth for a cold body and spirit.

 

Your Daily Witches Rune for July 20th is Harvest

Today’s Witches Rune

Harvest

Meaning: This is a very positive rune, related to abundance, rewards, growth and benefits. But it’s important to not mistake this rune for mere luck… while luck may help, the Harvest rune is usually related to the blessings that you have brought to yourself and to others, through your actions and investments.

“Reaping what you sow” is the message of the Harvest rune, but with a positive connotation. All that you worked and fought so hard to get will finally come to you, and you’ll be able to enjoy a time of tranquility, optimism and expansion. As the obstacles that were (or still are) in the way become smaller, you have a solid ground to reach out for your dreams.

Thus, the Harvest rune is a positive sign, telling you that you are in right path. However, it’s important to know that this symbol is always attached to personal responsibility… it’s what you do with your tools (whether they be mental, emotional or physical) that determines what you’ll get back in the end. Use them wisely, and luck will serve you well.

On a more negative side, this rune can make one sleep on their laurels and cling to past victories. One can become too reliant on “what works” and refuse to try new things (specially if the Crossroads rune is near). The Harvest runes should inspire you to take some risks and keep evolving, and not to crystalize yourself in one position because it proved to be successful.

In relationship readings, this symbol is connected to more practical aspects than emotional ones. Usually it represents couples who grow together, financially, socially and/or professionally. Security becomes an important factor when the Harvest appears. It represents the moment in which the couple begins to build their nest together, and think about starting a family. This rune tends to be very positive for all relationships, but doesn’t always inspire much passion.

Your Crowley Thoth Tarot Card for July 20th is The Universe

Your Crowley Thoth Tarot Card for Today

The Universe



Like The Sun, The Universe brings good blessings. The Universe appears where all is in balance. It allows you to act effectively not only as an individual but as a member of a group too. The Universe promises contentment, fulfillment and completeness to those under its influence. It doesn’t guarantee there will not be moments of strife or discord in your life, but it does indicate that your trials and tribulations will be overcome; that ultimately you will know inner-peace and contentment. The Universe suggests you have found or will find your place in the scheme of things—that place where all is as it should be.

Your Daily Tarot Card for July 20th is The World

Your Personal Daily Tarot Card

The World



Like The Sun, The World brings good blessings. The World appears where all is in balance. It allows you to act effectively not only as an individual but as a member of a group too. The World promises contentment, fulfillment and completeness to those under its influence. It doesn’t guarantee there will not be moments of strife or discord in your life, but it does indicate that your trials and tribulations will be overcome; that ultimately you will know inner-peace and contentment. The World suggests you have found or will find your place in our Universe—that place where all is as it should be.

Get A Jump On Tomorrow, Your Daily Horoscopes for Thursday, July 21

Get A Jump On Tomorrow….

Your Daily Horoscopes for Thursday, July 21

by Rick Levine

 

General Horoscope

Strange energies are lurking in dark corners of our world today, externally and internally. The quirky Aquarius Moon enables us to gain a new perspective on love, but it doesn’t come easily as vulnerable Venus forms difficult aspects with Pluto the Transformer and Uranus the Awakener. Although we’re likely to confront intense emotional issues, we must manage our anger, especially when the Moon squares aggressive Mars later this evening.

Aries Horoscope MAR 21 – APR 19

Sometimes you’re unable to just power your way through a difficult situation, even though you might try anyway. However, knowing when to hold and when to fold could turn your day around. Prematurely walking away reduces the immediate pressure, but doesn’t resolve the underlying cause. Stay where you are, even if it’s uncomfortable. You can find brilliant solutions beneath the current stress — but only if you’re willing to engage in the magical process of transformation.

Taurus Horoscope APR 20 – MAY 20

You might wish you could become a hermit for the day — but you can’t. Although you may be confused about your role in a group activity, you don’t really want to push your friends away; you just hope the emotional drama will disappear without your involvement. However, interacting with others is also a major source of inspiration now and you count on your social network to support you when you need it. Fortunately, a solution isn’t required yet. Surprisingly, the tension begins to dissipate once you accept the temporary uncertainty and go with the flow.

Gemini Horoscope MAY 21 – JUN 20

You can talk your way in and out of problems today, but it’s no fun to be in a nearly constant state of stress. Steer clear of heavy fog instead of swinging into motion after you’re already in trouble. In other worlds, don’t drive if you can’t see the road in front of you. It’s better to slow down or even stop than to create a dangerous situation. There’s nothing to prove to anyone now. Nevertheless, once your clarity returns, be ready to hit the gas and make up for lost time.

Cancer Horoscope JUN 21 – JUL 22

You know you are at a turning point yet you can’t imagine what might be around the next corner. The nurturing Cancer Sun has encouraged you to reconnect with those you love. But soon everything is about to change and you cannot stay in the nest just because it feels safe and cozy. The problem is you may not have a clue as to where you’re going next. Nevertheless, you must spread your wings and fly. Thankfully, the notion of leaving home is worse than the actual deed. Fear looks, faith jumps.

Leo Horoscope JUL 23 – AUG 22

There is no time to waste since your show is about to start when the radiant Sun enters your expressive sign tomorrow. However, you were more certain about your relationship status last week than you are today. Don’t make any sudden moves yet because, most likely, very little has changed in the basic interpersonal dynamics. You will be happily surprised when the sky clears and you wake up with the sunshine on your face.

Virgo Horoscope AUG 23 – SEP 22

You’re ready to shake up the status quo, but you’re worried about making changes that actually set you back. The truth is that your judgment may be slightly off today and your less-than-critical thinking could prompt you to make a bad decision. Don’t assume that your new method is an improvement just because you can see the results you want in your mind’s eye. Continue to explore the possibilities now without committing to any one path.

Libra Horoscope SEP 23 – OCT 22

You crave more freedom in a relationship now and are considering bringing the subject up in a conversation. Unfortunately, a discussion may not follow your ideal script today; the more you talk, the more elusive the truth. However, avoiding the subject won’t further your cause. Rather than announcing to your partner what doesn’t work for you, focus on what does. Any forward movement is healthy as long as you allow nature to follow her own course. Planting a seed is more effective than trying to prematurely harvest the entire crop.

Scorpio Horoscope OCT 23 – NOV 21

You might be stuck between a rock and a hard place today with no apparent way out. But your current dilemma is likely of your own making, especially if you’re holding onto the past too tightly. There’s a wave of new energy heading your way, but you must be ready to receive it. Letting go of old feelings makes room for new ones. Joseph Campbell wrote, “The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure that you seek.”

Sagittarius Horoscope NOV 22 – DEC 21

Your friends are willing to put up with your idiosyncrasies because they know how brilliant you are when you’re on a roll. But you can’t get away with pretending to be so certain of the future if you’ve come untethered in the present. Instead of pushing your relationships further and further off the deep end, bring your feelings back to the here and now. You can travel anywhere in your imagination once your feet are solidly on the ground.

Capricorn Horoscope DEC 22 – JAN 19

You sound like you’re expressing yourself on a profoundly deep level today, but your words may stir up more confusion than resolution. It’s not necessarily your intention to mislead anyone, but language is more like a smokescreen now that obscures reality rather than exposing it. Unfortunately, you might believe you’re getting your message across when nothing could be further from the truth. As Confucius said, “Silence is a true friend that never betrays.”

Aquarius Horoscope JAN 20 – FEB 18

Although people may be exceptionally nice to you now, their current motives are not fully transparent. On one hand, you can just accept someone’s good deed without asking any questions. Or you might fearfully reject an individual’s honorable behavior without waiting to learn your assumptions were wrong. Jumping to conclusions is dangerous today. Your mind is powerful, yet it will steer you wrong unless you take the time to exercise your brain.

Pisces Horoscope FEB 19 – MAR 20

Your anger could bubble to the surface now, creating a little mess you will need to clean up. One simple emotional outburst won’t fix anything; in fact, it could send you in a wrong direction, especially if you’re looking for love, truth and beauty in all the wrong places. Observe your inner processes while you can still see them. So many things are about to change and what was easily visible today could vanish by tomorrow. As Lao Tzu wrote, “He who knows himself is enlightened.”

 

Part of the Daily Insight Group