astronomy for hobbyist
I found a new meteor shower, and it comes from an asteroid getting broken down by the Sun
New Meteor Shower
Across the Earth, every night, thousands of automated stargazers are waiting to take pictures of shooting stars. I am one of the scientists who study these meteors.
Most movies and news alerts focus on large asteroids that could destroy the Earth. And your phones notifies you every few months that an object nine washing machines wide is going to just narrowly skim past. However, the small dust and rubble that enter our atmosphere daily tell an equally interesting story.
My planetary science colleagues and I use camera observations of the night sky to better understand dust, car-sized asteroids and debris from comets in our solar system.
In a study published in March 2026, I searched through millions of meteor observations collected by all-sky camera networks based in Canada, Japan, California and Europe and found a small, recently formed cluster. The 282 meteors associated with this cluster tell the story of an asteroid that got a little too close to the Sun.
Meteor formation
When a sand-sized crumb of space rock hits our atmosphere, it heats up almost instantly, vaporizing its surface layer and turning it into an electrically charged gas. The whole fragment starts to glow — this is what we call a meteor. If the object is larger, like a boulder, and brighter, it’s called a bolide or a fireball. On average, these objects hit our atmosphere going over 15 miles per second. For small dust or sand-sized objects, the whole process lasts only a fraction of a second before they completely disappear.
Most of these sand-sized fragments in the solar system originate from comets – cold, icy objects from the outer reaches of the solar system. As comets pass by the Sun, their icy components turn to gas, releasing tons of dust. This is why comets are often called “dirty snowballs” and appear fuzzy in telescopic images.
Asteroids, on the other hand, are leftovers from the early solar system that formed closer to the Sun. They are dry and rocky, and do not have the same ices that give comets their characteristic tails.
What does it mean to be active?
Astronomers call an asteroid or comet “active” when it sheds dust, gas or larger fragments. This activity is caused by some external force on the object in space, like heat from the Sun, a small impact, or when asteroids spin too fast and fly apart.
Understanding and identifying activity helps scientists better understand how these objects change over time.
For comets, sublimation of ices – when solid ice turns directly into gas, skipping the liquid phase – is the primary culprit. However, for asteroids, the reason for activity can vary greatly.
For example, NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission, which launched into space to study an asteroid named Bennu, saw activity from its surface, with heat stress and small impacts among the leading explanations.
Other sources for asteroid activity include breakup when an asteroid spins too fast, tidal forces ripping apart asteroids during close encounters with a planet, or gas release.
Researchers most commonly search for activity using telescopes. Astronomers can look for a “tail” or fuzziness around the object. This tail is a clear sign that there is gas and dust around the body. But there is another way to search for activity – meteor showers.
Finding hidden asteroids via meteor showers
The most famous active asteroid is 3200 Phaethon. It is the parent body of the Geminid meteor shower that occurs every year in mid-December. During past close approaches with the Sun, Phaethon released vast amounts of dust and larger fragments. These morsels of Phaethon have spread out along its entire orbit over time, leading to the present Geminid meteor stream.
Each meteor shower we observe occurs when the Earth passes through one of these debris streams. So if astronomers can detect meteor showers, they can also be used to find active objects in space.
At first, debris shed by an asteroid or comet travels closely together. Imagine squeezing a single drop of food dye into a moving stream of water: Initially, the dye stays in a tight, concentrated cloud. But as it flows, the water’s swirling currents pull at the dye, causing it to spread out and fade.
In space, the gravitational tugs from passing planets act like those currents. They pull on the individual meteor fragments in slightly different ways, causing the once-tight stream to gradually drift apart until it completely dilutes into the background dust of our solar system.
The discovery of a rock-comet
In a study published in March 2026 in the Astrophysical Journal, I used millions of observations of meteors to search for recent, unknown activity from asteroids near the Earth. I found one clear cluster of 282 meteors that stood out.
What makes this discovery so exciting is that we are essentially witnessing a hidden asteroid being baked to bits. This newly confirmed meteor stream follows an extreme orbit that plunges almost five times closer to the Sun than Earth does.
Based on how these meteors break apart when they hit our atmosphere, we can tell they are moderately fragile, but tougher than stuff from comets. This finding tells us that intense solar heat is literally cracking the asteroid’s surface, baking out trapped gases and causing it to crumble. This is likely a major source of past Phaethon activity and the main reason the meteorites on Earth are so diverse.
The search for the source
Why does finding a hidden, crumbling asteroid matter? Meteor observations act as a uniquely sensitive probe that lets us study objects that are completely invisible to traditional telescopes.
Beyond solving astronomical mysteries, analyzing this debris helps us understand the physical evolution of asteroids and comets in our solar system. More importantly, it reveals hidden populations of near-Earth asteroids, which is vital information for planetary defense.
The new meteor shower’s parent asteroid remains elusive. However, NASA’s NEO Surveyor mission, launching in 2027, offers a promising solution. This space telescope, dedicated to planetary defense and the discovery of dark, hazardous, Sun-approaching asteroids, will be the ideal tool for searching for the shower’s origin.
Patrick M. Shober, Postdoctoral Fellow in Planetary Sciences, NASA
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
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Science
After the Blood Moon: Scientists and Skywatchers React to the March 3, 2026 Total Lunar Eclipse
The March 3, 2026 total lunar eclipse amazed skywatchers worldwide. Scientists and amateur astronomers share reactions and photos from the dramatic blood moon event.
Last Updated on March 5, 2026 by Daily News Staff
Millions of people around the world looked to the sky in the early hours of March 3, 2026 to witness one of the most striking astronomical events of the year — a total lunar eclipse, often referred to as a “Blood Moon.” As the Moon passed completely into Earth’s shadow, it transformed from its familiar silver glow into a deep copper-red color, captivating observers from North America to Asia and across the Pacific.
Blood Moon Aftermath: Scientists and Skywatchers React to the March 3, 2026 Total Lunar Eclipse
For viewers in the western United States, including Arizona and California, the eclipse occurred just before sunrise. The timing created a dramatic scene as the reddish Moon hovered low in the western sky while the eastern horizon began to brighten with dawn.
A Global Skywatching Event
Total lunar eclipses occur when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align so that Earth’s shadow completely covers the Moon. During the March 3 event, the Moon spent nearly an hour fully inside the darkest part of Earth’s shadow, known as the umbra. During this phase, sunlight filtered through Earth’s atmosphere projected reddish light onto the Moon’s surface, creating the dramatic “blood moon” effect.
Astronomers noted that the event was particularly significant because total lunar eclipses are relatively infrequent. While partial eclipses occur more often, a full eclipse visible across large portions of the globe remains a memorable experience for both scientists and casual observers.
Scientists Explain the Phenomenon
According to researchers at NASA, the reddish color seen during totality occurs because Earth’s atmosphere scatters shorter wavelengths of sunlight — such as blue — while allowing longer red wavelengths to pass through. This filtered light is then bent, or refracted, into Earth’s shadow and projected onto the Moon.
Planetary scientists say lunar eclipses provide a powerful visual demonstration of the geometry of the Earth–Moon–Sun system. The curved shadow moving across the Moon also historically served as one of the earliest pieces of evidence that Earth is spherical.
Researchers also point out that lunar eclipses offer opportunities to study Earth’s atmosphere. Variations in dust, volcanic particles, and atmospheric conditions can influence how dark or red the Moon appears during totality.
Amateur Astronomers Share Their Views
While professional observatories monitored the eclipse with precision instruments, amateur astronomers and astrophotographers helped document the event from countless locations worldwide. Social media platforms and astronomy forums quickly filled with images showing the Moon’s color shifting from pale gray to orange and deep red.
Many skywatchers in the southwestern United States described the experience as particularly dramatic because the eclipse occurred just before moonset. Observers reported seeing the Moon glowing red above desert landscapes and city skylines before gradually fading into the brightening morning sky.
Astrophotographers also emphasized that lunar eclipses are among the easiest astronomical events to capture. Unlike solar eclipses, they can be photographed safely without special filters, making them accessible to beginners using smartphones as well as professionals using telescopes and high-end cameras.
A Rare Pre-Dawn Sight
In parts of the western United States, some observers were able to witness a rare atmospheric phenomenon known as a selenelion, when both the eclipsed Moon and the rising Sun appear in the sky at the same time due to atmospheric refraction. The effect added an unusual visual element to an already impressive celestial event.
The combination of a deep red Moon and the approaching dawn created striking photographic opportunities and memorable moments for early-morning skywatchers.
When Is the Next Total Lunar Eclipse?
Although partial eclipses occur periodically, the next widely visible total lunar eclipse will not occur until late 2028. That makes the March 2026 eclipse one of the most notable skywatching events of the decade.
For many observers, the event served as a reminder that some of the most spectacular astronomical experiences require nothing more than stepping outside, looking up, and taking a moment to appreciate the universe above.
References and Further Reading
- NASA – Lunar Eclipse Science Overview
- Time and Date – March 3, 2026 Total Lunar Eclipse Details
- Sky & Telescope – Astronomy News and Observing Guides
- Space.com – Guide to Lunar Eclipses
- STM Daily News – Science Coverage
Author
Last Updated on March 2, 2026 by Daily News Staff
Early risers in Arizona are in for a celestial show.
On Tuesday, March 3, 2026, a total lunar eclipse will be visible across much of North America — including Phoenixand the Valley. During this event, the Moon will pass completely into Earth’s shadow, turning a deep copper-red color often called a “Blood Moon.”
Here’s what you need to know.
🌍 What Is a Total Lunar Eclipse?
A total lunar eclipse happens when the Sun, Earth, and Moon align perfectly, with Earth positioned directly between the Sun and the Moon. As the Moon moves into Earth’s darkest shadow (the umbra), it doesn’t disappear — instead, it glows red.
That reddish color comes from sunlight filtering through Earth’s atmosphere — essentially, we’re seeing all the world’s sunrises and sunsets projected onto the Moon at once.
🕒 Phoenix Viewing Times (MST)
Arizona does not observe Daylight Saving Time in March, so these times are in Mountain Standard Time (MST).
- 1:44 a.m. – Penumbral eclipse begins (subtle dimming begins)
- 2:50 a.m. – Partial eclipse begins (Earth’s shadow becomes clearly visible)
- 4:04 a.m. – Totality begins 🌕
- 4:34 a.m. – Greatest eclipse
- 5:03 a.m. – Totality ends
- 6:18 a.m. – Partial eclipse ends
- 7:20 a.m. – Penumbral eclipse ends
The most dramatic portion — totality — lasts nearly one hour.
🌅 Where to Look in Phoenix
The eclipse happens in the pre-dawn hours, so the Moon will be low in the western sky as it sets.
For the best view:
- Find a location with a clear western horizon
- Avoid city light glare if possible
- Consider desert viewpoints, parks, or elevated areas around the Valley
Because the Moon will be setting as the Sun begins to rise, the backdrop of early morning twilight could make for stunning photography.
🔭 Do You Need Special Equipment?
No.
Unlike a solar eclipse, lunar eclipses are completely safe to view with the naked eye. However:
- Binoculars enhance color detail
- A small telescope reveals subtle shadow gradients
- A tripod and DSLR or smartphone with night mode can capture impressive images
🌎 Why This Eclipse Matters
This will be one of the most accessible celestial events of 2026 for Arizona residents. Total lunar eclipses don’t happen every year in the same location, and the timing — just before sunrise — adds dramatic visual contrast.
If skies are clear, Phoenix could have a spectacular view.
📌 Quick Viewing Reminder for Phoenix
Set your alarm for around 3:45 a.m.
Step outside by 4:00 a.m.
Look west
Watch the Moon turn red
No tickets. No crowds. Just the sky putting on a show.
For more science, space, and Arizona skywatching coverage, visit STM Daily News.
Related Coverage
- NASA: What Is a Lunar Eclipse?
- Time and Date: March 3, 2026 Total Lunar Eclipse Details
- Sky & Telescope: How to Watch the March 2026 Lunar Eclipse
- Space.com: Where and When to See the 2026 Blood Moon
- STM Daily News – Science & Space Coverage
Author
astronomy for hobbyist
🌠 How to See a Comet Tonight Over Phoenix — Your Binocular Guide to the October Sky
Comet Night: Tonight in Phoenix, skywatchers can observe two comets, C/2025 A6 (Lemmon) and C/2025 R2 (SWAN). Both are visible through binoculars, with Lemmon potentially seen unaided under dark skies around 7:00 PM.
Last Updated on October 18, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Phoenix skywatchers are in for a treat tonight as not one, but two comets — C/2025 A6 (Lemmon) and C/2025 R2 (SWAN) — make their way across the evening sky. Both are now bright enough to be seen through a good pair of binoculars, and one may even flirt with naked-eye visibility under dark conditions.
If you’ve ever wanted to catch a comet without fancy equipment, tonight’s your chance.
🌌 What You’ll See
Comet Lemmon (C/2025 A6) has been gaining brightness through October and now glows with a faint greenish hue, a sign of vaporized gases and carbon compounds in its tail. Under Phoenix’s clear skies, you may spot it as a fuzzy, glowing patch — brighter than most surrounding stars when viewed through binoculars.
The second visitor, Comet SWAN (C/2025 R2), is also within binocular range, adding to this rare double-comet spectacle. Though smaller and dimmer than Lemmon, it’s still worth the hunt.
🕗 When and Where to Look
- Best viewing time: About 30–60 minutes after sunset (roughly between 7:00 and 7:30 PM in Phoenix).
- Comet Lemmon: Look toward the northwest to west horizon, about midway between the bright star Arcturus and the handle of the Big Dipper.
- Comet SWAN: Scan the southwest sky, just above where the Sun has recently set.
Both comets will be low on the horizon, so find an open spot with no buildings or trees blocking your view.
🔭 Tips for Best Viewing
- Use binoculars (7×50 or 10×50 are ideal).
- Step away from bright city lights — South Mountain, Papago Park, or the outskirts of Phoenix offer better visibility.
- Allow your eyes 10–15 minutes to adjust to darkness.
- Bring a stargazing app (like Sky Tonight or Star Walk 2) and search the comet names to track them in real-time.
- If you have a tripod, use it — even slight hand movements can blur the view.
🌙 What to Expect
Comets aren’t as bright or defined as the ones we see in movies. Through binoculars, expect a small, glowing orb with a hint of a tail — especially for Lemmon. As the comet continues to approach the Sun in late October, it may brighten even further.
For many observers, simply knowing you’re seeing an object that’s traveled millions of miles through space makes the experience unforgettable.
⚠️ A Few Things to Note
- Visibility can change night to night depending on brightness, weather, and moonlight.
- If clouds or haze roll in, try again over the next few evenings — both comets will remain visible for several more nights.
- Don’t be discouraged if you don’t spot it immediately — comet hunting takes patience, but the reward is worth it.
📸 Share the Moment
If you manage to snap a photo of Comet Lemmon or SWAN from Phoenix, tag @stmdailynews on social media and use #STMSkyWatch — we might feature your photo in an upcoming article.
For more astronomy updates, local skywatching events, and science news, visit STM DailyNews Astronomy.
About the Comets
- How to See Rare Comet Lemmon During Its Once-in-a-Lifetime Visit – People
- Comet Lemmon: How and When to Watch – Wired
- Two Bright, Once-in-a-Lifetime Comets Visible This Month – Washington Post
- Comet Lemmon Shines in October Skies – Astronomy.com
- How to See Comet SWAN (C/2025 R2) in October – Space.com
- Comet SWAN 2025: What to Expect – EarthSky.org
Skywatching Tools
- Sky Tonight – Stargazing App (App Store)
- Star Walk 2 – Interactive Astronomy Guide
- Heavens-Above: Current Comet Positions
For Phoenix Skywatchers
