Astronomy Picture of the Day – A Solar Filament Erupts

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.

A Solar Filament Erupts
Image Credit: NASA‘s GSFC, SDO AIA Team

 

Explanation: What’s happened to our Sun? Nothing very unusual — it just threw a filament. Toward the middle of 2012, a long standing solar filament suddenly erupted into space producing an energetic Coronal Mass Ejection (CME). The filament had been held up for days by the Sun’s ever changing magnetic field and the timing of the eruption was unexpected. Watched closely by the Sun-orbiting Solar Dynamics Observatory, the resulting explosion shot electrons and ions into the Solar System, some of which arrived at Earth three days later and impacted Earth’s magnetosphere, causing visible aurorae. Loops of plasma surrounding an active region can be seen above the erupting filament in the ultraviolet image. Over the past week the number of sunspots visible on the Sun unexpectedly dropped to zero, causing speculation that the Sun has now passed a very unusual solar maximum, the time in the Sun’s 11-year cycle when it is most active.

Astronomy Picture of the Day – New Horizons Launch to Pluto

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 July 12

New Horizons Launch to Pluto
Image Credit & Copyright: Ben Cooper

 

Explanation: Destination: Pluto. The New Horizons spacecraft roared off its launch pad at Cape Canaveral in Florida, USA in 2006 toward adventures in the distant Solar System. The craft is the fastest spaceships ever launched by humans, having passed the Moon only nine hours after launch, and Jupiter only a year later. After spending almost a decade crossing the Solar System, New Horizons will fly past Pluto on Tuesday. Pluto, officially a planet when New Horizons launched, has never been visited by a spacecraft or photographed up close. After Pluto, the robot spaceship will visit one or more Kuiper Belt Objects orbiting the Sun even further out than Pluto. Pictured, the New Horizons craft launches into space atop a powerful Atlas V rocket.

Current Moon Phase for March 2nd – New Moon

New Moon

(waxing/12% of Illumination)

The New Moon is a time best suited for new beginnings! For the first 48 hours following the exact time of the New Moon each month, a window of opportunity opens for making wishes that, if noted, come true in the days and months ahead. There is a tremendous amount of enthusiasm in the atmosphere, making it a great time to go forward and begin projects that you feel instinctively attracted to initiating. Follow your impulses and let yourself make new starts in areas that are important to you.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Current Moon Phase for February 27 – Waning Crescent

Crescent Moon

(waning /12% of illumination)

This is a time to rest, reevaluate and reflect, pulling back into yourself to reconnect with inner sources of strength. Now is not a time to initiate anything new. It’s a phase suited to spending time with friends and getting in touch with the “big picture.” A window of opportunity exists for seeing your life objectively and becoming aware of what is important to you. At this point, what are your dreams and aspirations? What larger goals can you aspire to that will bring vitality and excitement into your life? This is a time for resting and gaining inner strength to prepare for a new cycle.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Celebrating Spirituality 365 Days A Year – Equirria

Witchy Comments & Graphics
February 27th

Equirria

The Equirria was an ancient Roman festival of horse-racing held in honor of the God Mars. It was said to have been established by Romulus and held in the Campus Martius on Caelian Hill. There was a similar festival held on March 14 called the Mamuralia.

Mars was originally a God of agriculture and guardian of fields and boundaries, known as Mamers, Maris, or Marmar. He became identified with the Greek God Ares and so assumed the major role of war God. He was regarded as the son of Juno, and the month of March was named after him. He had a succession of festivals in February, March, and October.

Magickal Activity for Equirria

The First Pentacle of Mars

The First Pentacle of Mars is used to invoke the powers of Mars for gaining courage, enthusiasm, ambition, and all physical accomplishments.

You will need:

A square of red card stock
1 Red red votive candle in a glass holder
A small red cloth bag
 

Inscribe the First Pentacle of Mars on the red square of card stock. Light the red votive candle, and place it on top of the pentacle as you chant:

“Almighty warrior and God of power,
Fill me with courage from this hour.”
 

Allow the candle to burn completely out. Place the pentacle in the red bag and carry for courage

Enhanced by Zemanta

Daily Cosmic Calendar for Tuesday, February 25th

As the second month of 2014 begins winding down toward the beginning of March, the next ten days will see a flurry of major planetary alignments as well as celestial stations — where key bodies in our solar system appear to stop from the Earth’s perspective to move either retrograde or direct.  Right now, Pluto attempts to seize center stage by making its monthly union with the Moon in Capricorn (8:22AM) while Pluto also forms a fairly rare, 60-degree rapport with Chiron in Pisces (2:36PM). Intensity and extremes are always huge potentials when Pluto makes an appearance in the human domain. Tuning into your spiritual willpower and laser-like mental concentration will give you a clear boost.  The Moon and Venus attempt to ratchet up love vibrations and their romantic frequency as these two goddesses of the heavens parallel (6:05PM) and then unite in Capricorn (9:18PM). What may keep the love boat anchored at shore are a somewhat dour Moon-Saturn parallel (9:00PM) and a far more unpredictable, surprising square between Jupiter in Cancer and Uranus in Aries (11:30PM).  Whatever stability and reassurance you can muster around these time-periods can become a saving grace. With a little maneuvering and clever attitude-shifting, the frictional nature of the Jupiter-Uranus 90-degree aspect could turn into a tour de force — providing you with a cornucopia of insights on the cutting edge of science, medicine, and arcane studies. [Note to readers: All times are calculated for Pacific Standard Time. Be sure to adjust all times according to your own local time so the alignments noted above will be exact for your location.]

Current Moon Phase for Feb. 21 – Waning Gibbous

Gibbous Moon

(waning /56% of illumination)

This is a tremendous time of transmutation. All of the prior elements are coming together for a final burst of creative output. You have seen a clear view of your own needs and the posture of significant others. Now the accumulation of that input is leading to a deep, core change within you. In this phase, you will naturally be inclined to seek higher guidance so that you can emerge from this transformation successfully. The Disseminting Moon favors sharing what you have learned (and are learning) with others.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Current Moon Phase for Feb. 18th – Waning Gibbous Moon

Gibbous Moon

(waning /135-90 degrees)

This is a tremendous time of transmutation. All of the prior elements are coming together for a final burst of creative output. You have seen a clear view of your own needs and the posture of significant others. Now the accumulation of that input is leading to a deep, core change within you. In this phase, you will naturally be inclined to seek higher guidance so that you can emerge from this transformation successfully. The Gibbous Moon favors sharing what you have learned (and are learning) with others.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Daily Feng Shui News for Feb. 18th – ‘Pluto Day’

It was on this date in 1930 that ex-planet Pluto was discovered. On this ‘Pluto Day,’ download an image of Pluto’s glyph and reproduce it in cornmeal on the threshold of your entryway door. It is said that doing so will attract the formidable attributes that Pluto is famous for. Considering that Pluto wields considerable power, you can expect to feel pretty potent after enacting this exercise. Let the cornmeal blow away or sweep it away after leaving it in place for twenty-four hours.

By Ellen Whitehurst for Astrology.com

Enhanced by Zemanta

Current Moon Phase for February 18th – Waning Gibbous

Gibbous Moon

(waning /76% of illumination)

This is a tremendous time of transmutation. All of the prior elements are coming together for a final burst of creative output. You have seen a clear view of your own needs and the posture of significant others. Now the accumulation of that input is leading to a deep, core change within you. In this phase, you will naturally be inclined to seek higher guidance so that you can emerge from this transformation successfully. The Gibbous Moon favors sharing what you have learned (and are learning) with others.

Enhanced by Zemanta

The Witches Correspondences for Tuesday, February 18th

Witchy Comments & Graphics
The Witches Correspondences for Tuesday, February 18th

Magickal Intentions: Courage, Physical Strength, Revenge, Military Honors, Surgery and the Breaking of Negative Spells, Matrimony, War, Enemies, Prison, Vitality and Assertiveness
Incense: Dragon’s Blood, Patchouli
Planet: Mars
Sign: Aries and Scorpio
Angel: Samuel
Colors: Red and Orange
Herbs/Plants:Red Rose, Cock’s Comb, Pine, Daisy, Thyme and Pepper
Stones: Carnelian, Bloodstone, Ruby, Garnet and Pink Tourmaline
Oil: (Mars) Basil, Coriander, Ginger

Mars rules Tuesday. The energies of this day best harmonize with efforts of masculine vibration, such as conflict, physical endurance and strength, lust, hunting, sports, and all types of competition. Use them, too, for rituals involving surgical procedures or political ventures

Enhanced by Zemanta

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Feb. 17th is Mars

Your Ancient Symbol Card for Today

Mars

Mars represents those qualities we commonly associate with the male/yang persona. Mars traits include raw energy, ambition, aggression, confidence, passion, and a sense of adventure. The occurrence of Mars denotes the dominating presence or need of the qualities listed above. Martian influence may have a negative impact unless it is balanced with an influence that can blunt the brashness and impulsiveness of Mars.

Enhanced by Zemanta

The Witches Almanac for Friday, February 14th

The Witches Almanac for Friday, February 14th

Friday (Venus): Love, friendship, reconciliation and beauty.

Valentine’s Day

Waxing Moon

The Waxing Moon is the ideal time for magick to draw things toward you.

Full Moon 6:53 pm

The Full Moon is the time of greatest power.

Moon Sign: Leo

Leo: Draws emphasis to the self, central ideas or institutions, away from connections with others and other emotional needs. People tend to be melodramatic.

Incense: Thyme

Color: White

Enhanced by Zemanta

Current Moon Phase for Feb. 13th – Waxing Moon

Gibbous Moon

(waxing/98% of Illumination)

Distractions from the outside begin pressing into your world. Analysis is favored, reevaluating all the various factors you are dealing with. It’s a time to process information and effectively integrate your aims with the people in your immediate environment. This is a good time for organizing things. This Moon phase is suited for synthesis: coming up with a practical plan for getting from point A to point B. Adjustment is required.

Enhanced by Zemanta

The Witches Almanac for Thursday, February 13th

The Witches Almanac for Thursday, February 13th

Thursday (Jupiter): Expansion, money, prosperity and generosity.

Parentalia (Roman)

Waxing Moon

The Waxing Moon is the ideal time for magick to draw things toward you.

Moon Phase: Second Quarter

Moon Sign: Leo

Leo: Draws emphasis to the self, central ideas, or institutions, away from connections with others and other emotional needs. People tend to be melodramatic.

Incense: Apricot

Color: Crimson

Enhanced by Zemanta

Invocation to the Moon

Invocation to the Moon
by Patricia Telesco

I come into your garden fair,
To Waltz upon the dew.
To look upon your handiwork,
While morning still is new.

I come into your meadow fair,
To laugh upon the lawn,
To stare upon a red-blue sky,
Working magic come the dawn.

I come into your forest fair,
To sing among the trees,
To sway carefree amidst the leaves
Come full the noon-day breeze.

I come into your greenwood fair,
To watch the sunlight play,
As it dances towards the dusk,
And sparkles like the fey.

I come into your grove so fair,
The cloak of night comes round,
To gather stars within its sweep
And shine upon the ground.

I come upon your world so fair,
And think on what I’ve seen
Then fall to sleep with Gods of old,
And dream on moon-beam wings

Enhanced by Zemanta

Full Moon Invocation

Full Moon Invocation

Mother, Goddess of moon and star,
Bring Your presence from afar,
Manifest on this, Your night,
And bless me in this sacred rite!
Grant the knowledge and clarity
To understand Your words to me,
Lend Your power, send Your light,
Aid me in my work tonight!
With love and wisdom please embrace,
All within this sacred space,
Mother, I now call to You,
Bring Your message clear and true!

***AutumnRose***

Enhanced by Zemanta

Daily Horoscopes for February 12th

We may not be very forthcoming with our feelings this morning. Ironically, it’s tempting to get angry with someone else for being emotionally distant. However, the timid Cancer Moon shifts into expressive Leo at 2:15 pm EST, prompting us to say what’s been on our minds. Unfortunately, a tricky lunar alignment with retrograde Mercury can muddle messages and manifest misunderstandings. Thankfully, clarity begins to return as soon as tomorrow.

Aries Horoscope

(Mar 21 – Apr 19)

You can work yourself into a state of high anxiety this morning, but luckily, your moodiness dissipates later in the day. Paradoxically, you might even feel strangely optimistic without anything actually happening to support your belief that things are improving. Nevertheless, a sudden adjustment in attitude is exactly the catalyst you need to shift your life into the next gear. Don’t be afraid to plan for the future; it will be here sooner than you think.

Taurus Horoscope

(Apr 20 – May 20)

You could spend much of your day revisiting problems that developed over the last few weeks. Thankfully, your frustration is fading, but the desired results are still beyond your grasp. Oddly enough, your confidence remains unshaken and you’re sure things will turn around without a lot of extra work on your part. Taking the easy way out is tempting, but a proactive approach to change can make the difference between failure and success.

Gemini Horoscope

(May 21 – Jun 20)

Your current plans may not be progressing as quickly as you wish. You might even be slightly annoyed with someone who has been standing in your way, but now they appear to change their behavior and help, rather than block, your efforts. Holding a grudge is ill-advised; accept the energetic shift as a positive sign that you’re on the right track today, even if your goals still seem far out of reach. A grateful outlook serves you well.

Cancer Horoscope

(Jun 21 – Jul 22)

Although you may feel mired in an emotional conflict, circumstances begin to change this afternoon, prompting you to realize that you have less time than you thought. Don’t be lazy; if you have something to say, go ahead and speak your piece, even if your declaration might spark an uncomfortable discussion. Getting your feelings out into the open today helps to get the ball rolling and sets the stage for resolution. Now is better than never.

Leo Horoscope

(Jul 23 – Aug 22)

The waiting game is over; it’s time to make your move. Perhaps you have recently tried a variety of tactics to push a pressing relationship issue along, but to no avail. Now that the Moon is returning to your dramatic sign, the winds of change are blowing up a storm. There’s no reason to resist the movement, even if you aren’t sure which direction you’re heading. Be bold and ride this cosmic wave for all it’s worth.

Virgo Horoscope

(Aug 23 – Sep 22)

Even if you have something important to say to a coworker today, you may end up keeping your thoughts to yourself. Although you might imagine shouting your message from the top of a mountain, the Moon’s shift into your 12th House of Privacy tells a different story. Sharing the news with grandiose declarations isn’t your style, and could leave you with pangs of regret. Focusing on the details is still the most effective way to make your case. Your silence says volumes to those who bother to listen

Libra Horoscope

(Sep 23 – Oct 22)

You can see potential in things that other folks miss today, and it’s up to you to use this special vision to your advantage. Ultimately, it’s your innate creativity that enables you to discover these magical possibilities. Now it’s time to jump in and play an active role in manifesting results. However, don’t try to do everything all at once or you might burn out too quickly. Follow your intuition and turn your dreams into tangible reality.

Scorpio Horoscope

(Oct 23 – Nov 21)

It’s about time that you receive the credit you deserve for all the work that you do. However, the current recognition might not be about your regular duties at home or on the job. More likely, you’re being acknowledged for what you bring to the world by who you are when you show up. It may be nearly impossible for others to put this special quality into words, yet you will know you are appreciated now by how people act in your presence. Don’t push away the love; receive it with a gracious heart and a touch of humility.

Sagittarius Horoscope

(Nov 22 – Dec 21)

Your future is beginning to open up and your dreams appear a bit closer than before. Nevertheless, you are still aware of how much planning there is yet to be done. Thankfully, you are feeling more energetic day by day. Additionally, it seems as if the mental fog is lifting and your thinking is growing sharper. It’s a good idea now to map out your schedule for the next few weeks. Make the necessary commitment, figure out the logistics and get to work today.

Capricorn Horoscope

(Dec 22 – Jan 19)

Today’s dilemma might stem from not knowing how much to tell others regarding your latest news. You may be really excited about a new project, plan or relationship, but aren’t ready to say anything until you are more certain that everything is moving along as you wish. Nevertheless, it might be smarter to share your enthusiasm now, along with your concerns. The feedback and support you receive can help you more than you think.

Aquarius Horoscope

(Jan 20 – Feb 18)

Although you may start your day in a quiet frame of mind, an enthusiastic friend could coax you out of your seclusion. Perhaps you thought that you would simply go about your day, doing your work and minding your own business, only to discover a much different path in store for you now. Don’t resist an enticing invitation just because you have too much work to do. You can always come back and tie up loose ends later on. Surrendering to a surprise might just be your best option today.

Pisces Horoscope

(Feb 19 – Mar 20)

You’re standing at the edge of a clearing, yet you can’t tell which way to go. Fortunately, you will step through this window of opportunity as your direction becomes apparent over the next few days. In the meantime, make the most of where you are now by paying attention to every little detail. Observe how others respond to you, but don’t forget to also tune into your own creative process. Remember, if something occurs in your imagination, there’s a good chance it can also happen in your real life.

Enhanced by Zemanta

Current Moon Phase for Feb. 12th – Waxing Gibbous

Gibbous Moon

(waxing/95% of illumination)

Distractions from the outside begin pressing into your world. Analysis is favored, reevaluating all the various factors you are dealing with. It’s a time to process information and effectively integrate your aims with the people in your immediate environment. This is a good time for organizing things. This Moon phase is suited for synthesis: coming up with a practical plan for getting from point A to point B. Adjustment is required.

Enhanced by Zemanta

The Witches Almanac for Wednesday, February 12

The Witches Almanac for Wednesday, February 12

Wednesday (Mercury): The conscious mind, study, travel, divination and wisdom.

Lincoln’s Birthday (actual)

Waxing Moon

The Waxing Moon is the ideal time for magick to draw things toward you.

Moon Phase: Second Quarter

Moon Sign: Cancer

Cancer: Stimulates emotional rapport between people. Pinpoints need, supports growth and nurturance. Tends to domestic concerns.

Moon enters Leo 2:15

Leo: Draws emphasis to the self, central ideas, or institutions, away from connections with others and other emotional needs. People tend to be melodramatic.

Incense; Marjoram

Color: White

Enhanced by Zemanta