he authoritarian structure of the workplace robs the individual worker of a chance to join in a community with his fellows to make decisions and develop his talents. Unable to join with others to explore his potential and creativity, the individual is forced to retreat into a shell in which he has neither meaningful rights nor responsibilities at his work. All he is left with is a job, a place to make money, and a degrading environment to which he must submit, eight hours of every day.”
Thus we can see how a seed parameter of encouraging one to
follow one’s bliss – since in this new paradigm one can – uplifts each one of us and increases the value of consciousness in society.
Having described the seed, how might it be expected to manifest? One of the first products that is likely to be seen is the “power box,” which will be sold, initially. These would be units that had a mechanism to draw on the Plenum Energy and outlets to plug in our air conditioners, stoves, heaters, refrigerators, freezers, and so forth. This would allow us to move anywhere and bring our comfort items with us. We could “go camping” and still have our amenities, and many will. Eventually these appliances will each have their own units within.
As the cost of energy is removed from the production line at every stage, things will become less and less expensive, and at some point, will be given freely.
Other observables will include:
■ Money falling into disuse
■ Motivation from the heart as opposed to profit
■ “Greed” becomes meaningless
■ Peace
■ Abundance for everyone
■ Elimination of corruption
■ Power over others supplanted by power over self
■ Elimination of GMO’s
■ Great reduction in violence
■ Creative pursuits increased greatly
■ A healed planet
■ Reduced or eliminated hoarding
■ Value placed on human-created art, textiles and products
■ Focus on cures, not patentable chemicals that sicken for profit motive
■ Human interaction with only those whose company is enjoyable (reduced social friction)
■ Robotic stewardship of the planet
■ Increased love and compassion
■ Greatly reduced stress
■ Wondrous works
■ “Live and let live” behavior
■ Most “laws” become unnecessary
■ Corporate power eliminated
■ Products made to last – no “planned obsolescence”
■ Waste reduced to virtually nil
■ Food nutrition increased for all
■ One’s reputation becomes the “coin” one uses
■ Personal responsibility for one’s own behavior
■ Spiritual growth
■ Slavery (outright or wage-slavery) abolished
■ Human dignity encouraged
■ Increase in charitable behavior
■ Self autonomy
■ Things are done because someone cares – from raising children to caring for others
From this list, it is clear that many issues we now face will be solved. Wealth will be measured in richness of character, rather than in deposits to a bank account. And we will spend our time doing what we like to do, being with the people we like and share interests with. Inventions, rather than being suppressed, will burgeon, and the “Star Trek universe” may be within our grasp, with things like transporters and replicators emerging.
Spiritual growth and communication will be encouraged as we find a greater amount of our time available to pursue the exploration of our inner dimension.
Though this is not a solution to every issue arising from human interaction – we will always have our personal disagreements – the overall health of society will skyrocket. Yes, we may still argue with others over the smaller issues in our lives, and some may choose to behave violently, but the numbers of occurrences will drop to a level we would consider statistically insignificant. Definitely a vast improvement over what we see today.
When you consider what I present here, ask yourself these questions:
Does this threaten a pet vision – passing laws, say, to solve a problem you see, or a view of striking it rich – that you have of your future? Does this scare you? Do you look for reasons that it won’t work? (All you envision as barrier issues – are scarcity paradigm views…)
Then ask yourself why working towards what I present here won’t solve the issue you want to solve, why you wouldn’t be rich in what I show to you, why it wouldn’t fulfill your idea of heaven, why you are afraid, and/or why you look for reasons it won’t work – rather than apply the proactive will to make this happen.
If we each choose to create this, since we have all it would take,
consciously co-creating towards this goal , what I present would happen. It would take enough of us reaching a tipping point before it would all be downhill, and you may choose your future behavior. Speak for abundance, or reduce the chances that this will ever happen by keeping silent.
In closing, I recommend any who work for someone else and also are privy to information (such as methods of extracting usable energy from the plenum) give strong consideration to coming forth with what is known. In the end, you and all of us will be better off – and even today’s power elite will retain their life style, if not their power over us.
Further reading:
The Abundance Paradigm, by Amaterasu
http://tinyurl.com/9q7eztu
Another Letter from the Future, by Amaterasu
http://www.abovetopsecret.com/forum/thread491053/pg1
The Hot Dog Stand: How Much Would You Charge?
http://12160.info/profiles/blogs/the-hot-dog-stand-how-much-would-you-charge
Secrets of Antigravity Propulsion, by Dr. Paul A. LaViolette
http://www.padrak.com/ine/INE24.html
PDF's Electrogravitics:
http://www.dtic.mil/cgi-bin/GetTRDoc?AD=ADA227121
http://arxiv.org/ftp/physics/papers/0211/0211001.pdf
http://www.ssrsi.org/Onsite/PDFbin/Biefeld-Brown%20Effect.pdf
http://www.rqm.ch/Central%20Oscillator%20and%20SpaceQuantaMedium.pdf
http://jnaudin.free.fr/lifters/files/ElectrograviticsElectrokineticsValone.pdf
http://www.integrityresearchinstitute.org/Loder.PDF
http://users.teilar.gr/~a.a.nass/files/C6.pdf
http://www.checktheevidence.com/pdf/The%20Case%20for%20AntiGravity-booklet.pdf
http://www.ostfalia.de/export/sites/default/de/pws/turtur/NeuesVerzeichnis/Film_englisch.pdf
YouTube Electrogravitics:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=490XJk053TY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93rsfqwGfOs
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KyZFDbyxoXM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njZy64BeQNo
And a demonstration of discs encased in resin to eliminate the "ion wind" effect:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lUUq2RnnoG8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4NePm5RUhP8
To sign a petition for the release of electrogravitics technology:
http://www.change.org/petitions/us-military-release-the-technology-of-electrogravitics
Twitter: @AmaterasuSolar
by Amaterasu Solar
Latest headlines
Giant snails potentially carrying meningitis make their way into Texas
Giant snails appear to be invading Texas, according to new reports, and some health experts worry that the unusual creatures might begin spreading a disease that could be deadly to humans. As reported by NBC News, a Houston woman recently discovered what is believed to be the first known instance of a particular type of snail species in Texas, the Giant African land snail, which has ignited a firestorm of localized panic over the potential spread of meningitis.
The Austin-based Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center was the first to hear about the sighting after a woman living in Houston's Briar Forest neighborhood spotted a snail roughly the size of loaf of bread slithering through her backyard garden. The woman snapped a photo of the snail and sent it to authorities, who
Natural disasters uprooted more than 32 million people in 2012
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This map shows internal displacement worldwide in 2012 by state and number of displaced people. CLICK ON IMAGE FOR LARGER VIEW (Credit:
Strong earthquake M 6.1 struck near east coast of Honshu, Japan
A strong earthquake M 6.1 struck near east coast of Honshu, Japan on May 18, 2013 at 05:48 UTC. Epicenter of the earthquake was located 50 km (31mi) NE of Namie, Japan and 61 km (38mi) ESE of Watari, Japan at coordinates 37.761°N 141.454°E. USGS recorded depth of the earthquake at 41.5 km (25.8 mi) whereas EMSC reported depth at 60 km and same magnitude as USGS.
JMA is reporting M 5.9 earthquake at depth of 50 km.
According to GDACS, this earthquake can have a low humanitarian impact based on the magnitude and the affected population and their vulnerability.
There are about 3 010 000 people living within 100 km radius of the earthquake.
Earthquake intensity map. Credits: USGS
Tectonic summary by USGS
Seismotectonics of
G1 (Minor) Geomagnetic Storm in progress - May 18, 2013
G1 (Minor) Geomagnetic Storm conditions are now occurring due to the arrival of the CME from May 15, 2013. During G1 Geomagnetic Storm, weak power grid fluctuations can occur, minor impact on satellite operations is possible, aurora is commonly visible at high latitudes and migratory animals are affected at this and higher levels.
Planetary K-index reached Kp=5 level. This series of CME's related to AR 1748 had a source region within 30 degrees of the solar limb, which reduces their possibility of arrival to the Earth to around 30%.
ALERT: Geomagnetic K-index of 5
Threshold Reached: 2013 May 18 0300 UTC
Synoptic Period: 0300-0600 UTC
Active Warning: Yes
NOAA Scale: G1 - Minor
SUMMARY: Geomagnetic Sudden Impulse
Observed: 2013 May
Tropical Storm Alvin dissipated, new low pressure system is forming
Alvin had strengthened to a Tropical Storm on May 15, 2013 and now has weakened and is considered a Post-Tropical Cyclone. With the excessive wind shear and cooler water, the storm has dissipated into just a weak low pressure.
According to Tropical Weather Outlook by US National Hurricane Center, an area of low pressure associated with the remnants of Alvin is located about 800 miles southwest of Manzanillo, Mexico. The system continues to produce a large area of disorganized shower and thunderstorm activity.
The system has a low 20% chance of becoming a tropical cyclone again during the next 48 hours as it moves west-northwestward around 10 mph. Strong upper-level westerly winds are expected to inhibit any significant development.
Satellite
Tropical Cyclone Mahasen weakened and fully dissipated
Tropical Cyclone Mahasen fully dissipated after weakening into tropical storm on May 16, 2013. Luckily, its impact was far less damaging than initially expected. Mahasen veered west of its predicted path after dumping heavy rains over bay of Bengal coastal areas.
Mahasen hit land with maximum wind speeds of about 100 km/h (62 mph) and quickly weakened. There was no major tidal surge due the low tide in time of Mahasen's landfall. However, many low-lying areas and islands were inundated by a surge during the storm. More than 49,000 thatched houses were destroyed.
The cyclone spared major populated areas in Bangladesh, including Chittagong and the seaside resort of Cox's Bazar. By the time Mahasen hit Chittagong and Cox's Bazar, wind speeds
Lava fountaining at Pavlof volcano, Alaska
According to AVO (Alaska Volcano Observatory) Pavlof volcano continues to erupt. Lava fountaining at the summit has been observed and photographed, and a continuous ash, steam, and gas cloud generated by the activity extends downwind from the volcano for 50 to 100 km at an altitude of about 6 km (20,000 ft) above sea level.
This natural-color satellite image, collected by the Advanced Land Imager (ALI) on the Earth Observing-1 (EO-1) satellite, shows Pavlof on May 16, 2013. A brown ash plume blew from the summit towards the southeast, and gray ash from earlier explosions covered the snow on the volcano’s upper slopes. To the northeast, additional ash rose from an ongoing lava flow. (NASA Earth Observatory image by Jesse Allen and Robert Simmon, using EO-1 ALI data
Earth watching satellite Proba-V opens its eyes to map land cover and vegetation growth across the entire planet
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The satellite’s vegetation imager was switched on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 in time to get a glimpse of France’s coast along the Bay of Biscay and the lush interior. The data were then sent down to ESA’s Redu centre in Belgium.
Vital uses of Proba-V data include day-by-day tracking of extreme weather, alerting authorities to crop failures, monitoring inland water resources and tracing the steady spread of deserts and deforestation.
Less than a
Health is directly linked to the gut: Eleven things that destroy the beneficial probiotic bacteria living inside us
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Another moderate solar flare M3.2 from Region 1748, CME detected
Moderate solar flare measuring M3.2 erupted from Region 1748 on May 17, 2013 peaking at 08:57 UTC. A type II and IV radio emissions were associated with the event. Type IV emissions occur in association with major eruptions on the Sun and are typically associated with strong coronal mass ejections and solar radiation storms.
It seems Earth will feel some of Sun's material from this flare. Slight CME impact is forecasted late on May 19th.
Additionally, a 10cm radio burst measuring 450 sfu was recorded. This can be indicative of significant radio noise in association with a solar flare. This noise is generally short-lived but can cause interference for sensitive receivers including radar, GPS, and satellite communications.
This is second M-class
Earth and Moon pelted by meteors - Impact causes bright explosion on the Moon
A meteor with estimated weight of 40 kg, approximately 0.3 - 0.4 meters wide, and traveling at speed of 90 123 km/h hit the lunar surface in Mare Imbrium on March 17, 2013. The resulting explosion packed as much punch as 5 tons of TNT.
"It exploded in a flash nearly 10 times as bright as anything we've ever seen before", said Bill Cooke of NASA's Meteoroid Environment Office.
Anyone looking at the Moon at the moment of impact could have seen the explosion without a telescope. For about one second, the impact site was glowing like a 4th magnitude star.
Ron Suggs, an analyst at the Marshall Space Flight Center, was the first to notice the impact in a digital video recorded by one of the monitoring program's 14-inch telescopes.
Moderate M1.3 solar flare from Region 1748. Slight chance for minor geomagnetic storming today
Active Region 1748 erupted with moderate solar flare measuring M1.3 at 21:53 UTC on May 16, 2013. This was another noticeable activity from this region after 4 X-class flares erupted on May 13/14. (X1.7 and X2.8 on May 13th, X3.2 and X1.2 on May 14th)
This region has Beta-Gamma-Delta magnetic configuration and is rotating toward the center of the solar disk into a more geoeffective position. Any future eruption would likely be Earth directed.
NOAA SWPC forecasters estimated 75% chance for M-class event today, and 50% chance for an X-class. Solar activity is expected to be high with a chance for X-class flares May 17 - 19.
Coronal Mass Ejection from May 15th X1.2 solar flare might present a glancing blow to Earth's magnetic field today.
Landsat Data Continuity Mission: The Long Swath
The Landsat Data Continuity Mission (LDCM) reached its final altitude of 705 kilometers (438 miles) on April 12, 2013. One week later, the satellite’s natural-color imager scanned a swath of land 185-kilometers wide and 9,000 kilometers long (120 by 6,000 miles). LDCM recorded path stretching from Russia to South Africa - the mosaic assembled by 56 still images into a seamless, flyover view of what LDCM saw on April 19, 2013.
Orbiting at 16,800 mph (27,000 kph), LDCM made this flight in slightly more than 20 minutes. The animation moves faster, covering 5,665 miles (9,117 kilometers) in nearly 16 minutes. You would have to be moving about 21,930 mph (35,290 kph) to get a similar view — only slightly slower than the Apollo astronauts who entered
Tropical Storm Alvin marks the beginning of 2013 eastern Pacific hurricane season
May 15th marked the start of the 2013 Eastern Pacific hurricane season, and right from the start, the first tropical depression and subsequent tropical storm of the season has formed. Tropical Storm Alvin, off the coast of Mexico, is the first named storm of the 2013 eastern Pacific hurricane season.
Unstable weather pattern crossed into the eastern Pacific Ocean waters west of Panama and south of Mexico to become better organized system. Tropical Depression 1-E (TD1E) formed early on May 15 and by the end of the day it strengthened into Tropical Storm Alvin, fueled by warm ocean water and light wind shear.
Total precipitable water animation (Credit: MIMIC/TPW/CIMSS)
According to latest public advisory issued by US National
First global topographic map of Titan, a world much like Earth
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Active volcanoes in the world: May 8 - May 14, 2013
This week, 8 volcanoes had new activity, whereas ongoing activity was also reported for 8 volcanoes. This report covers active volcanoes in the world recorded from May 8 – May 14, 2013 based on Smithsonian/USGS criteria.
New activity/unrest: | Cleveland, Chuginadak Island | Copahue, Central Chile-Argentina border | Dieng Volcanic Complex, Central Java (Indonesia) | Guntur, Western Java (Indonesia) | Mayon, Luzon | Pavlof, Alaska Peninsula | Popocatépetl, México | Tungurahua, Ecuador
Ongoing activity: | Kilauea, Hawaii (USA) | Kizimen, Eastern Kamchatka (Russia) | Paluweh, Lesser Sunda Islands (Indonesia) | Reventador, Ecuador | Sabancaya, Perú | Sakura-jima, Kyushu | Shiveluch, Central Kamchatka (Russia) | Tolbachik, Central Kamchatka
Mass evacuation in Bangladesh and Myanmar ahead of Tropical Cyclone Mahasen
Tropical Cyclone Mahasen (01B) is now centered several hundred miles south of Kolkata, India, and will impact areas from northeastern India to Bangladesh and Myanmar over the next few days. The system is about to enter into an area of warm sea surface temperatures and lower wind shear which will intensified the cyclone and give it opportunity to become even better organized. Landfall is expected to occur on May 16, 2013 with most forecast models putting the path between Chittagong (Bangladesh) and Maungdaw (Myanmar).
On May 13, 2013 the Suomi NPP satellite caught an interesting glimpse of the storm as it moved off the eastern coast of India. The VIIRS Day-Night Band was able to resolve lightning flashes towards the center of the storm, along with
Increased volcanic activity at Popocatepetl volcano
Popocatepetl volcano in Mexico has plumed steam for days, alerting authorities to prepare for possible evacuations. According to CENAPRED (Centro Nacional de Prevención de Desastres) at 6:46 UTC on May 15, 2013 there was an explosion that produced incandescent fragments throwing them around the volcano reaching distances up to 1.5 kilometers from the crater, while also generating a plume of ash more than 3 kilometers high which winds scattered northeast. An episode of spasmodic tremor followed, accompanied by incandescent fragments thrown at distances up to 500m on the northeast slope, and ash emission which winds carry northeast.
Webcam screenshots of activity on May 15, 2013 (Credit: Tlamacas/CENAPRED)
During an aerial survey flight by CENAPRED on the
Extensive glacial retreat observed in Mount Everest region
A new study finds a decline in snow and ice on Mount Everest and the national park surrounding it. The scientists have been studying temperature and precipitation trends in the area and found that the Everest region has been warming while snowfall has been declining since the early 1990s. Although researchers have not yet established a firm connection between the mountains' changes and climate change, they suspect that the decline of snow and ice in the Everest region is from human-generated greenhouse gases altering global climate.
The Himalayan glaciers and ice caps are considered a water tower for Asia since they store and supply water downstream during the dry season. Downstream populations are dependent on the melt water for agriculture,
Fourth major solar flare in 48 hours - X1.2 peaked at 1:47 UTC today
On May 15, 2013 at 1:25 UTC another major solar flare started. The event peaked at 1:47 UTC as an X1.2 solar flare. It was associated with Type II and IV radio emission and a 10cm Radio Burst (Ten Flare) measuring 490 sfu. Type IV emissions occur in association with major eruptions on the Sun and are typically associated with strong Coronal Mass Ejections and solar radiation storms.
The majority of Sun's material from this eruption was directed away from Earth, but it looks like a smaller amount of it might come our way.
Today's X1.2 flare erupted from notorious Region 1748 which already produced three X-class and numerous C and M-class events in last 48 hours. This region is now classified with Beta-Gamma-Delta magnetic configuration and is capable
Quantum computer outperforms regular PC
A series of tests between a regular PC and a commercially available quantum computer showed great potential of the quantum machine, leaving the PC trailing behind. The difference between classical bits and quantum bits, or qubits is that the latter can take the values 0 and 1 at the same time- which in theory means much faster computing speed. To classify them as truly quantum, the qubits are supposed to be linked by the quantum property of entanglement. To prove that was not a mundane task, because entanglement is impossible to measure while the device is in action, in March, 2013 an indirect evidence for entanglement was acquired in two separate tests of D-Wave’s device.
Bits, Pbits and Qubits (Credit: DaveBacon/ScienceBlogs)
D-Wave, a Canadian company,
Low-level eruption of lava and increased seismic activity at Pavlof volcano
Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) reported increased seismic activity at Pavlof volcano and presence of intense elevated surface temperatures on the morning of May 13, 2013. An intense thermal anomaly at the summit was observed in latest satellite imagery. AVO reports that similar patterns of seismicity and elevated surface temperatures have previously signaled the onset of eruptive activity at Pavlof.
The agency states that although not yet visually confirmed, a low-level eruption of lava has likely begun from a summit vent, but there have been no significant ash clouds detected so far.
Satellite images and pilot reports revealed that a spatter-fed lava flow has advanced about a half a kilometer down the north flank of the volcano on May 14, 2013. AVO raised
Tropical Cyclone Mahasen intensified in Bay of Bengal
The first tropical cyclone in the Northern Indian Ocean this season,Tropical Cyclone Mahasen (01B), is now centered to the northeast of Sri Lanka, or several miles south of Calcutta, India, and will impact areas from northeast India to Bangladesh and Myanmar, along the Bay of Bengal over the next few days. The storm is expected to approach Bangladesh late on May 15, 2013 with expected peak intensity of 120 km/h (75 mph) winds. The primary threat from the storm will be heavy rainfall throughout the region.
Indian Ocean region on May 14, 2013 (Credit: CIMSS/METEOSAT-7))
According to latest report by Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC), TC Mahasen is located approximately 562 nautical miles south-southwest of Calcutta, India. The system is moving northward at
Third major X-class solar flare in 24 hours - X3.2 on May 14, 2013
Solar activity increased rapidly in the past two days with three M-class and three major X-class solar events. The latest recorded is the strongest flare so far this year, recorded as X3.2 on May 14, 2013 at 01:17 UTC. This event was associated with Type II and Type IV Radio Emissions and 10cm radio Burst.
Type II Radio Emission occur in association with eruptions on the sun and typically indicate a coronal mass ejection is associated with a flare event. Type IV Radio Emissions occur in association with major eruptions on the sun and are typically associated with strong coronal mass ejections and solar radiation storms.
A 10cm radio burst indicates that the electromagnetic burst associated with a solar flare at the 10cm wavelength was
Strong, very deep and harmless earthquake struck Northern Mariana Islands
A strong and very deep, harmless, earthquake M 6.8 struck Northern Mariana Islands on May 14, 2013 at 00:32 UTC. USGS measured depth at 601 km, EMSC at 605 km. Epicenter was located 39km (24mi) W of Agrihan, Northern Mariana Islands and 394km (245mi) N of Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands at coordinates 18.748°N 145.294°.
No tsunami warning was issued.
The hypocenter of this earthquake was in the hot solid layer of the Earth.
Tectonic summary by USGS
Seismotectonics of the Philippine Sea and Vicinity
The Philippine Sea plate is bordered by the larger Pacific and Eurasia plates and the smaller Sunda plate. The Philippine Sea plate is unusual in that its borders are nearly all zones of plate convergence. The Pacific plate is subducted
Second major solar flare today - Solar flare measuring X2.86 peaked at 16:05 UTC
The Sun is showing real solar-maximum-like activity today. After 2 moderate solar flares last night, an X1.7 erupted at 02:15 UTC. It was followed by another M-class at 12:03 UTC and numerous C-class flares.
At 15:48 UTC, on May 13, 2013, a second major eruption started. Peak time was reached at 16:05 UTC and was measured as X2.86 solar flare. The source was again, an active region located around the eastern limb. This region will most likely continue to produce eruptions as it turns into Earth view today.
A 10cm Radio burst was associated with the event. A type II and type IV radio emissions were also associated. Type IV emissions occur in association with major eruptions on the sun and are typically associated with strong
Major eruption - Active region around east limb produced powerful X1.7 solar flare
A new active region behind east limb produced powerful X1.7 solar flare on May 13, 2013 at 02:15 UTC. This event was associated with strong R3 Radio Blackout Alert, Type II Radio Emission and 10 cm Radio Burst.
This was the strongest solar flare of the year so far.
Strong R3 radio Blackout alert signals possible wide area blackout of HF radio communication, loss of radio contact for about an hour on sunlit side of Earth and degradation of low-frequency navigation signals for about an hour.
Type II Radio Emission occur in association with eruptions on the sun and typically indicate a coronal mass ejection is associated with a flare event.
ALERT: Type II Radio Emission
Begin Time: 2013 May 13 0210 UTC
Estimated Velocity: 2347
Tropical Cyclone Mahasen targets India, Bangladesh, Myanmar
Tropical Cyclone Mahasen (TC 01B) is getting better organized. Winds are predicted to increase to hurricane force as the system moves further northward into the Bay of Bengal. TC Mahasen is now located east-northeast of Sri Lanka and is expected to impact areas from northeast India to Bangladesh and Myanmar.
According to latest report by Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC), TC Mahasen is located approximately 721 nm southward of Calcutta, India. The system is moving north-northwestward at speed of 6 knots. Maximum sustainable winds are 55 knots with gusts up to 70 knots.
Indian Ocean IR satellite image of the system on May 12, 2013 (Credit: METEOSAT-7/CIMSS)
The cyclone is beginning to round the western edge of the subtropical ridge to the east. It is
Filament eruption and moderate M1.9 solar flare - May 12, 2013
A moderate solar flare measuring M1.9 was registered on May 12, 2013. The source of event was a region located on the eastern side and about to rotate into Earth's view. This event peaked at 20:31 UTC.
In early hours of May 12, 2013 an unstable filament of magnetism on the Earth side of the Sun erupted hurling part of itself into space. A bright Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) was recorded emerging from the blast and it could deliver a slight, glancing blow to Earth's magnetic field on May 15. (Solar prominence vs. Solar filament here.)
Courtesy of NASA/SDO and the AIA, EVE, and HMI science teams
A nice video of today's filament eruption can be found here...
Sunspots
There are currently 9 numbered regions
Europe bans bee-killing neonicotinoid pesticides: When will America take action?
A major victory for the world's bee populations has been achieved in Europe, where a majority of European Union (EU) member states voted recently to ban the use of bee-harming neonicotinoid pesticides across the entire continent for at least two years. In an overwhelming vote of 15 to 8, these member states decided that, based on a plethora of scientific evidence, the use of thiamethoxam, clothianidin, and imidacloprid on crops is destroying bee populations, and thus must end.
The decision comes after months of deliberation over the safety of neonicotinoids, which have repeatedly been shown to be a significant, if not the primary, factor causing the global phenomenon of Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD). CCD is characterized by worker bees leaving to forage and never returning, or
Possible magma ascent at Popocatepetl volcano
According to CENAPRED on May 11, 2013 during the last 24 hours the volcano monitoring system recorded 53 exhalations of low and moderate intensity, accompanied by emissions of steam, gas and ash sometimes. Also two explosions occurred of moderate magnitude, one at 06:10 UTC on May 10, 2013, and the other at 15:03 UTC, with the latter producing an eruption column height of 1 km and moved eastward. So it is possible that in villages of this area was submitted ashfall.
CENAPRED stated that this internal activity represents possible magma ascent. Nevertheless, except for low intensity exhalations of ash at the beginning of this episode, it hasn’t been reflected with any important external eruptive activity.
Webcam shots of recent nightly and daily activity at
M 6.5 earthquake struck near Neiafu, Tonga
Deep M 6.5 earthquake struck near neiafu, Tonga on May 11, 2013 at 20:46 UTC. The epicenter was 139km (86miles) NW of Neiafu, Tonga 153km (219miles) N of Nuku`alofa, Tonga and 576km (358miles) SW of Apia, Samoa, at coordinates 17.944°S 175.075°W. The epicenter was at depth of 205.4km (127.6miles). There were no danger of tsunami. No damage was reported.
Seismotectonics of the Eastern Margin of the Australia Plate
The eastern margin of the Australia plate is one of the most sesimically active areas of the world due to high rates of convergence between the Australia and Pacific plates. In the region of New Zealand, the 3000 km long Australia-Pacific plate boundary extends from south of Macquarie Island to the southern Kermadec Island chain. It includes an
Red alert for wind impact in Bangladesh - Tropical Cyclone 01B developed in Bay of Bengal
New tropical disturbance developed in Bay of Bengal and it's named Tropical Cyclone 01B. The current maximum wind speed is 157 km/h, equal to Category 2 storm. This tropical cyclone is expected to have a high humanitarian impact based on the storm strength and the affected population in the past and forecasted path. According to GDACS, up to 8.3 million people can be affected by wind speeds of cyclone strength or above. In addition, 1.9 million people people are living in coastal areas below 5m and can therefore be affected by storm surge.
Tropical Cyclone 01B developed from low pressure System 92B, formed near the northern tip of Sumatra. Forecasters at the Joint Typhoon Warning Center expect 01B to intensify into hurricane force and make landfall on May 14 or 15 in
Strong earthquake M 6.2 struck southern Iran - numerous aftershocks
A strong earthquake M 6.2 struck southern Iran on May 11, 2013 at 02:08 UTC. Epicenter of the earthquake was located 85 km (53 mi) ESE of Minab, Iran and 157km (98 mi) E of Qeshm, Iran at coordinates 26.784°N 57.841°E. USGS reported depth 36.4 km (22.6 mi) whereas EMSC reported depth of 30 km with same magnitude.
There are 56 villages within a radius of 15 km.
Many houses have collapsed according to eyewitness reports. Aftershocks are shaking the region at regular intervals.
At least 10 villages have damage and destruction, and the injury toll of 17 is reported so far (5:00 UTC). This area is very historical and old, and there are reports than many “historical villages” have been destroyed (ER)
9
Second M-class solar flare of the day - M1.3 erupted at 12:56 UTC
A moderate solar flare reaching M1.3 erupted on May 10, 2013 peaking at 12:56 UTC. The source was returning Active Region 1726 which already produced M3.9 flare today making this the second M-class eruption of the day. This same region was the source of large prominence eruption and strong C-class solar flare yestarday at 23:15 UTC.
NOAA SWPC forecasters estimated 35% chance for M-class event, and 1% chance for an X-class event.
Sunspots
There are currently 9 numbered regions on the disk. Old Region 1726, the source of today's two M-class flares, is about to rotate into Earth's view, and will be named AR 1745. There is significant flaring from this region so it's one to watch for in the coming days. Beta-Gamma classified Region 1736, source of
World earthquakes visualization map 2012-2013
World Earthquakes Visualization Map shows animation of earthquake activity from January 2012 until May 2013.
Worldwide Earthquakes of 2012. All recorded earthquakes greater than magnitude 4.0 are shown for the full year, along with their depths and magnitudes. Locations of the world’s tectonic plates and the Ring of Fire are also depicted.
Credit: Monoroch/EQForecaster,
Impulsive M3.9 solar flare off the eastern limb
Moderate impulsive solar flare registered as M3.9 erupted from area off the eastern limb, around one of new active regions and old Sunspot 1726, which already produced strong C 9.1 flare few hours earlier. The event started at 00:44 UTC and peaked at 00:57 UTC on May 10, 2013.
There are currently 8 numbered active regions on the visible side of the Sun. Sunspot 1734 is now located in the southwest quadrant and is crackling with C-class flares. Sunspots 1732, 1734 and 1736 are each rotating towards the southwest limb and will all be out of direct Earth view May 12, 2013. Meanwhile, three new regions rotated into view off the east limb and were numbered 1742, 1743 and 1744. Regions 1740 and 1741 continued to decay and are now spotless plages.
CURRENT
Large prominence eruption and strong C-class solar flare
Strong solar flare erupted on May 9, 2013 at 22:52 with peak at 23:15 UTC as C9.1 flare, just below M-class threshold. The event was centered around old returning Sunspot 1726. It will be on the visible solar disk in the next 24 hours when it will be designated as Active Region 1745.
X-Ray flux plot (Credit: GOES/SWPC)
STEREO imagery (Credit: NASA/STEREO)
SOHO’s LASCO C3 and C2 coronographs (Credit: ESA/NASA/SOHO)
Earlier on May 9, 2013, SDO captured a large prominence eruption off the southwest limb. A Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) is visible in the latest STEREO Ahead COR2 imagery as well in the both SOHO’s LASCO coronographs. This CME is directed away from Earth.
Sunspot 1734 is now located in the southwest quadrant and is crackling with C-class
Subglacial volcanoes help scientists reveal climate change secrets
When an eruption of the volcano happens below a glacier, a subglacial volcano can be formed. These subglacial volcanoes, called tuyas, can enable scientists to piece together details on how the climate of our planet has changed over the course of its history. The shape of tuyas differs, determined by a number of environmental factors at the time of the eruption, along with the thickness of the ice sheet.
A new study, published online on April 30, 2013 in the journal Nature Communications, suggests that an ancient volcano that erupted 1.8 million years ago in western Canada burst through an ice sheet that was double the thickness than researchers had previously estimated.
Scientists gathered pyroclastic samples from Kima’Kho, which is a partially eroded
Pacific’s Marshall Islands facing drought disaster
A drought has left areas of the Marshall Islands facing “dire” water shortages with aid agencies scrambling to ship relief to affected communities. The International Organization for Migration (IOM) warned that unusually low rainfall in one of the world’s remotest ocean communities is leading to a precarious humanitarian situation for thousands of people. With almost no rainfall since late last year on some of the northern islands, the government was forced to declare State of Emergency in its northern islands, as villages began rationing water to preserve supplies. Crops, plants and trees have suffer substantial damage, so about 3200 people are facing food shortages as well.
According to IOM’s drought assessments, some families living
Two new tropical disturbances formed in Indian Ocean
New tropical depression (System 94S) formed on May 8, 2013 and is about to become next tropical cyclone in Southern Indian Ocean – Tropical Cyclone 24S. The system is packing maximum sustained winds near 40 knots (46 mph/74 kmh) with gusts up to 50 knots, and is expected to strengthen over the next several days. The Joint Typhoon Warning Center expects Tropical Cyclone 24S to drift slowly to the southwest and then south over the next couple of days as it continues to intensify.
Multispectral satellite image shows the system on May 9, 2013 (Credit: JTWC/SATOPS)
According to latest report by Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC), Tropical Cyclone 24s (TC 24S) is located approximately 774 nm east of Diego Garcia. The system is moving
Don’t miss this year’s annular solar eclipse on May 9/10
On May 9-10, the Moon will pass directly in front of the sun over the South Pacific, producing the first (annular) solar eclipse this year. At greatest eclipse, 95-98% of the sun’s surface will be covered. An annular eclipse occurs when the Moon eclipses the Sun while near apogee. The Moon’s apparent disk is just smaller than the Sun’s disk and the Sun appears as a brilliant ring, so it’s often called a “ring of fire”.
An annular eclipse will be visible from a 171 to 225 kilometre-wide track that traverses Australia, eastern Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and the Gilbert Islands. A partial eclipse is seen within the much broader path of the Moon’s penumbral shadow, which includes Australia, Indonesia, Oceania and much of the
Low-level eruption at Cleveland volcano continues
According to latest activity report by Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO), low-level eruption at Cleveland volcano continues. New explosions were detected at 07:23 UTC and 16:00 UTC on May 6, 2013 by the Okmok network, 120 km (80 mi) to the northeast. Overall however infrasonic data suggest that the eruption may have waned since yesterday. The volcano is obscured by clouds in satellite data, but a thermal anomaly continues to be visible.
AVO raised Mt. Cleveland’s volcano alert level from Advisory to Watch and aviation color code from Yellow toOrange on May 4, 2013, after 2-3 short low-level explosions recorded. Orange aviation code means that volcano is exhibiting heightened or escalating unrest with increased potential of eruption and mostly uncertain timeframe or
Active volcanoes in the world: May 1 – May 7, 2013
This week, 5 volcanoes had new activity, whereas ongoing activity was reported for 11 volcanoes. This report covers active volcanoes in the world recorded from May 1 – May 7, 2013 based on Smithsonian/USGS criteria.
New activity/unrest: | Cleveland, Chuginadak Island | Heard, Southern Indian Ocean | Mayon, Luzon |Papandayan, Western Java (Indonesia) | Tungurahua, Ecuador
Ongoing activity: | Bagana, Bougainville | Batu Tara, Komba Island (Indonesia) | Karymsky, Eastern Kamchatka (Russia) | Kilauea, Hawaii (USA) | Kizimen, Eastern Kamchatka (Russia) | Paluweh, Lesser Sunda Islands (Indonesia) | Reventador, Ecuador | Sakura-jima, Kyushu | Shiveluch, Central Kamchatka (Russia) | Soufrière Hills, Montserrat | Tolbachik, Central Kamchatka
2013 Eta Aquarid meteor shower overview
This year’s annual Eta Aquarid meteor shower peaked on May 5/6 as our planet passed through a stream of debris from Halley’s Comet. International Meteor Organization (IMO) reported peak of 135 meteors per hour on May 6, 2013. far more than initially forecasted, 25-30 per hour.
ZHR activity report graph (Credit: Geert Barentsen/IMO)
The waning crescent moon interfered on the weekend of May 4/5, but next week thinning moon will be more favorable. The radiant is situated approximately sixty degrees west of the sun and it rises before the sun in the morning hours, so for most observers, the Eta Aquarids are only visible during the last couple hours before the start of morning twilight. It is also interesting to look for the Antihelion meteors
Prominence eruption and CME on May 1, 2013 captured by SOHO, STEREO and SDO spacecrafts
On May 1, 2013, Active Region just around the left edge of the Sun erupted with a huge coronal mass ejection (CME). The video bellow shows combined imagery from NASA’s SDO, SOHO and STEREO heliophysics fleet.
Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) provided a view in the extreme ultraviolet wavelength of 304 angstroms of the initial arc as it left the solar surface. After CME left SDO’s field of view, ESA/NASA Solar and Heliospheric Observatory (SOHO) used two overlapping coronagraphs – LASCO C2 and LASCO C3. LASCO C2 coronograph shows the region out to about 2.5 million miles while LASCO C3 coronagraph expands even farther out to around 13.5 million miles. Both of these instruments show the CME as it expands through the solar
Deadly ash eruption at Mayon volcano in Philippines
Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) stated in the latest advisory report that Mayon volcano (13.2500°N, 123.6833°E) produced a small phreatic eruption early on May 7, 2013, which lasted 2 minutes 26 seconds. The agency stated that in the past 8-hr period, only one minor rockfall event was detected by the Mayon seismic network.
Mayon volcano phreatic explosions on May 7, 2013 (Credit: @tinabogs/noypistuff)
According to local media reports five people were killed and seven were injured as a result of a phreatic eruption at Mayon volcano in Philippines, which occurred during the morning hours on May 7, 2013. A tour guide who climbed up the Mayon volcano with seven other people on May 6, 2013 reported that three foreign tourists and a
Intro to space weather vocabulary video
Heliophysics scientists study energy transformation from one event to the other and which electromagnetic waves create which conditions near Earth. Space weather effects can disrupt satellites in space, so scientists need to understand the system in even more detail. Watch the video bellow, released by NASA’s SDO, to see how events on the sun affect Earth. This intro to space weather covers vocabulary like coronal mass ejection (CME), solar wind, and solar flare. It also outlines potential effects of solar storms on our planet.
Heliophysics research studies how energy and material from the sun affects Earth and the entire solar system. It’s a complex system that begins on the Sun when events on the Sun, such as solar flares or coronal mass ejections, travel out into
Iceland to resume disputed fin whale hunt in June
Iceland plans to resume its disputed commercial fin whale hunt in June with a quota of at least 154 giant mammals plus some 20% from last season possibly. Beside the second largest whale species (after the blue whale), Iceland also hunts a smaller minke whales. Iceland resumed commercial whaling in 2006.
Kristjan Loftsson, chief executive of Hvalur, the only company that catches the fin whale, said that two vessels are being prepared for the hunt and they will head out to sea in early June. In 2010, Hvalur caught 148 fin whales but none in 2011 and 2012 due to the disintegration of its only market in quake- and tsunami-hit Japan. Iceland exported 500- 600 tons of fin whale meat to Japan in 2011. Most of this year’s whale meat
Solar science meets art: Solar storm heading for Earth
ESA’s Space Science website released an unique portrait of a solar storm heading straight for Earth, based on data collected by the ESA/NASA SOHO space observatory during a coronal mass ejection. Imagery shows a huge cloud of magnetised plasma ejected from the Sun’s atmosphere and launched towards Earth.
The image shows an extreme-ultraviolet view of the solar disc superimposed on a wide-field view of the surrounding solar environment. The running difference technique takes sequential snapshots and compares them such that the strongest and most persistent features are isolated and highlighted – creating a feeling of rapid change as the solar storm expands outwards on all sides of the Sun and races towards our planet.
Solar storm heading for
Nicaraguan rainforest under threat from growing illegal logging and agricultural frontier
Leaders of Nicaraguan indigenous Mayangna and Miskito people warned that a rainforest in Nicaragua is under growing threat from illegal logging by landless people who have invaded the area. Indigenous tribes hold the title to the land of which 75,000 acres a year are being deforested by the invaders. According to Arisio Genaro, president of the Nacion Mayangna, the parts of territory that have been zoned to be conservation forest, are being invaded by settlers, a trend that poses a serious threat to the future of the forest.
The Bosawas Biosphere Reserve on the border of Nicaragua and Honduras is a the largest Central America’s tropical rainforest. The area is renowned for its rich biodiversity and numerous rare or
Annular solar eclipse on May 9/10, 2013
An annular solar eclipse will take place on May 9/10, 2013, with a magnitude of 0.9544. A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun, thereby totally or partially obscuring the image of the Sun for a viewer on Earth. An annular solar eclipse occurs when the Moon’s apparent diameter is smaller than the Sun, causing the Sun to look like an annulus (ring), blocking most of the Sun’s light. An annular eclipse appears as a partial eclipse over a region thousands of kilometres wide. This annular eclipse is also start of Saros 138 cycle.
This map shows the extent of the annular solar eclipse (Credit: EclipseMaps)
Annularity will be visible from northern Australia and the
A continuous low-level eruption recorded at Cleveland volcano on Aleutian Islands
The current eruption of Cleveland Volcano, which began with an explosion on May 4, 2013, has transitioned into a continuous low-level eruption. The activity is characterized by long duration airwave signals measured on the nearby Okmok seismic network, 120 km (80 miles) to the northeast.
Satellite and webcam data suggest continuous low-level emissions of gas, steam, and minor amounts of ash over the past several hours with a faint plume extending eastward below 15,000 ft. Satellite data also show highly elevated surface temperatures at the summit.
Mt. Cleveland 24 hours ash trajectory forecast (Credit: AVO/NOAA/ARL)
Sudden explosions of blocks and ash are possible with little or no warning. Ash clouds, if produced, could exceed 20,000 feet above sea level. If a large
Is Comet ISON just an ordinary comet?
Well, if you ask the question from the title, most people who are even remotely interested in astronomy and comets will most likely answer – NO - Comet ISON ( Comet C/2012 S1) is not an ordinary comet! In fact, it is a very interesting comet with plenty of potential for both experts and millions of stargazers around the globe.
As of May 2, Comet ISON was approximately 3.885 AU from the Sun, which is about 581 million kilometers (361 million miles) distant from the Sun. Ernesto Guido and Nick Howes of the Remanzacco Observatory used the 2-meter Ritchey-Chretien Liverpool Telescope to identify almost the same tail structure which was seen in the Hubble Space Telescope images of this comet from April 10, 2013. Their initial
Moderate solar flare reaching M1.4 erupted from Region 1739
A moderate solar flare reaching M1.4 erupted on May 5, 2013 peaking at 17:56 UTC. The source of the event was Region 1739 located near the eastern limb and classified with Beta-Gamma magnetic field. This is currently most active region on the disk responsible for numerous C-class events today.
NOAA SWPC forecasters estimate 45% chance for M-class event and 5% chance for X-class event today and in the next 2 days.
Sunspots
At the time of latest USAF/NOAA Solar Geophysical Activity Report and Forecast issued at 22:00 UTC, on May 4, there were 9 numbered regions on the disk. Regions 1731, 1734 and 1739 are classified with Beta-Gamma magnetic field and are capable of more moderate to strong eruptions. Region 1734 is directly facing Earth today and can be the source of
Massive tornadoes leave trail of destruction in Italy
Several tornadoes have struck the Emilia-Romagna region in Italy on May 3, 2013. A strong and violent tornado hit Bentivoglio and Argelato villages, between Bologna and Modena in the afternoon local time, injuring 11 people and damaging several houses. Some houses were completely destroyed. According to preliminary estimates of the Civil Protection would be at least a hundred houses damaged by the tornado and hailstorm outstanding.
The municipalities most affected appear to be Castelfranco Emilia, Mirandola, Bentivoglio and Argelato areas already severely put to the test by the earthquake of May 2012. In addition to homes everywhere are unusable other buildings, such as industrial and agricultural sectors, whose roof was blown off, while in the province of Modena some
New activity at Mt. Cleveland volcano on Aleutian Islands
Alaska Volcano Observatory (AVO) infrasound detected 2-3 possible explosion at Cleveland Volcano early on May 4, 2013. The infrasound signals suggest that this was a relatively short duration, low-level explosion. A small, low-altitude ash cloud along with high elevated summit surface temperatures at the summit were observed in satellite views later during the day. AVO received no other reports of activity.
AVO upgraded Volcano Alert Level from Advisory to Watch and Aviation Color Code from Yellow to Orange. Sudden explosions of blocks and ash are possible with little or no warning. Ash clouds, if produced, could exceed 20,000 feet above sea level. If a large ash-producing event occurs, nearby seismic, infrasound, or volcanic lightning networks should alert AVO staff quickly.
WMO dubbed last year as disturbing sign of climate change
The World Meteorological Organisation revealed in Statement on the Status of the Global Climate, that during the August to September 2012 melting season, the Arctic’s sea ice cover was just 3.4 million square kilometres (1.32 million square miles). That is equal to 18% less than record low set in 2007. Last year was the ninth warmest year since recorded history and the 27th consecutive year that the global land and ocean temperatures were above the 1961–1990 average.
The 2012 global land and ocean surface temperature during January–December 2012 is estimated to be 0.45°C (±0.11°C) above the 1961–1990 average of 14.0°C. The years 2001–2012 were all among the top 13 warmest years on record. Last year’s warming
The annual Eta Aquarids meteor shower peaks on May 6, 2013
The Eta Aquarid meteors usually provide a solid display at the beginning of May. Few annual meteor showers provide a decent show for the southern hemisphere observers as the Eta Aquarid do. That is because the radiant is very near a Y-shaped asterism in northern Aquarius constellation.
According to International Meteor Organization (IMO) the peak of the Eta Aquarids will be on May 6, 2013 at 1:00 UTC. This should favor skywatchers on European longitudes eastward on May 6 during the morning hours. Also, the Eta Aquarid radiant rises only a few hours before dawn producing optimal conditions for observing in the same time period. Since the meteor shower is active from April 19th to May 28th, to predict the peak of the shower can often be an inexact science. For
Two M-class solar flares in a row – M1.3 followed by strong M5.7
A long duration, moderate, solar flare reaching M1.3 peaked at 16:53 UTC on May 3, 2013. The source of the event was Region 1731 still classified as Beta-Gamma-Delta and capable of more strong eruptions. This region has rotated out of the Sun’s central disk area toward western limb.
Before that event ended an impulsive and strong M5.7 solar flare erupted and peaked at 17:32 UTC. The source is probably old Region 1719 located on the Sun’s eastern limb. A Type II radio emission was associated with the event which typically indicates Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) . If CME was generated it should not be Earth directed.
NOAA SWPC forecasters estimate 30% chance for M-class solar flare, and 5% for an X-class
Seed diversity under threat – Step closer to destruction of agricultural and horticultural seed diversity in Europe!
The EU directives on the marketing of seeds and plant propagating material are currently being reviewed in Brussels. The new regulation threatens rare varieties and farmers’ varieties. Non-commercial varieties are under particular threat of extinction, as the new regulation foresees that the exchange of seeds will become illegal for different kind of actors. This would harm small-scale farmers and local producers. On the other hand, industrial seed companies would extend their dominance.
If the Directorate General for Health and Consumers’ plans become a reality, more old and rare varieties of fruits, vegetables and grains will disappear from the market. These diverse varieties and varieties adapted to organic agriculture are to be hampered by bureaucracy, while the power
Tropical Cyclone Zane weakened after landfall over Cape York, Australia
According to latest report by Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC), Tropical Cyclone Zane (TC 23P) is located approximately 270 nm north-northwest of Cairns, Australia. The system is moving northwestward at speed of 10 knots.
Animated infrared satellite imagery reveals an elongating and fully-exposed low level circulation center. The overall organization of the system has become increasingly poor as the convection has further displaced from the low level circulation center. Upper-level analysis reveals an unfavorable environment as strong to moderate (20-30 knots) northwesterly vertical wind shear has persisted over the system.
TC Zane forecast track (Source: JTWC)
Dynamic model guidance is continuing to show a poor upper-level environment
Active volcanoes in the world: April 24 – April 30, 2013
This week, two volcanoes had new activity, whereas ongoing activity was reported for 19 volcanoes. This report covers active volcanoes in the world recorded from April 24 – April 30, 2013 based on Smithsonian/USGS criteria.
New activity/unrest: | Antuco, Central Chile | Tungurahua, Ecuador
Ongoing activity: | Batu Tara, Komba Island (Indonesia) | Chirpoi, Kuril Islands (Russia) | Etna, Sicily (Italy) | Fuego, Guatemala | Gaua, Banks Islands (SW Pacific) | Kilauea, Hawaii (USA) | Kizimen, Eastern Kamchatka (Russia) | Manam, Northeast of New Guinea (SW Pacific) | Pacaya, Guatemala | Paluweh, Lesser Sunda Islands (Indonesia) | Popocatépetl, México | Rabaul, New Britain
Moderate solar flare measuring M1.1 erupted from Region 1731
A moderate solar flare reaching M1.1 erupted from Region 1731 on May 2, 2013. The event peaked at 05:10 UTC. Region 1731 is located near the center of the disk and has Beta-Gamma-Delta magnetic configuration capable of producing strong eruptions.
A Type II radio emission, with an estimated velocity of 703 km/s, was associated with the event. Type II emissions typically indicate a Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) is associated with a flare event. Additionally, a 10cm radio burst was reported, this can be indicative of significant radio noise in association with a solar flare. This noise is generally short-lived but can cause interference for sensitive receivers including radar, GPS, and satellite communications.
Latest imagery shows a strong CME leaving the Sun
Massive hurricane-like storm on Saturn
The international Cassini spacecraft has found a behemoth hurricane swirling around Saturn’s north pole, surrounded by the curious rotating hexagonal band of clouds. This storm has been churning since at least 2006.
The images Cassini took on November 27, 2012 from a distance of 418 000 – 419 000 km, provided scientists the first close-up, visible-light views of this storm. NASA’s Voyager 2 spacecraft did not have a clear view of this area of Saturn’s north pole when it passed by in 1981, but it did detect and observe the hexagonal band of clouds that is so wide that it could fit almost four Earths inside.
In high-resolution pictures and video, the hurricane’s eye is about 1,250 miles (2,000 kilometers) wide, 20 times bigger than what an
Increased activity at Tungurahua volcano in Ecuador
The National Secretariat for Risk Management said yellow alert remains in surrounding communities of Tungurahua volcano in Ecuador.
On April 27, 2013 two small earthquakes associated with fracturing of rocks within the volcano (volcano-tectonic earthquakes) were recorded. According to a preliminary assessment, these volcano-tectonic earthquakes started a new increase in seismic activity at the volcano Tungurahua surface.
Seismic signal from Tungurahua (RETU station, IG) on April 29 ,2013
On April 27, 2013 an emission occurred and reached 2 km in height with a load of medium to low ash. Throughout the day the volcano continued producing short pulses of vapor emissions, which eventually had a moderate to low ash content. During this episode there was only one report
Strong and shallow earthquake M 5.4 struck eastern Kashmir
A strong and shallow earthquake M 5.4 struck eastern Kashmir region, India on Wednesday, May 01, 2013 at 06:57 UTC. Epicenter of the earthquake was located 17 km (10 miles) NE of Bhadarwah, India and 23 km (14 miles) SSE of Kishtwar, India at coordinates 33.100°N, 75.838°E. USGS reported depth of this shallow earthquake at 9.8 km, whereas EMSC reported depth at 40 km and magnitude 5.6.
Tremors of the earthquake were also felt in Pakistan and as far as UAE. Sources informed Earthquake-report that an elderly villager was killed in Kishtwar, when a bolder hit him while he was rushing out of his home. As per KashmirLife, 30 school children and one teacher in two different schools were injured seriously and hospitalized.
According to
Solar watch – Huge prominence eruption May 1, 2013
A spectacular prominence eruption was observed on the Sun on May 1, 2013 at 02:30 UTC. The event was classified as a farside eruption from active region located beyond eastern limb. This was the largest such event in quite some time now.
Powerful blast was unleashed into space and resulting Coronal Mass Ejection (CME) is not Earth directed. This region should rotate onto Earth facing side of the Sun in 2-3 days.
Flare probability
At 01:26 UTC, an impulsive C9.6 solar flare was detected. The event was centered around Sunspot 1730 located in the southern hemisphere.
NOAA SWPC forecasters estimated 40% chance for M-class, and 5% chance for X-class event today.
Sunspots
There are currently 7 numbered sunspot regions on the disk. Beta-Gamma-Delta classified Region
Tropical Cyclone Zane moving toward Cape York, Australia
Australian Bureau of Meteorology reports that Tropical Cyclone Zane is currently moving towards the west. The system should adopt a west-northwest track over the next 6 to 12 hours and accelerate slightly under the influence of a developing mid-level ridge across Queensland and the central Coral Sea. A Cyclone warning is current for coastal areas from Mapoon to Cape York to Cooktown, and warning for areas from Cooktown to Cape Tribulation has been cancelled.
The forecasters at the Joint Typhoon Warning Center expect Zane to track to the west-northwest and cross the Cape York Peninsula on May 1 and then emerge into the Gulf of Carpentaria. At this time, Zane isn’t expected to make a second landfall in Australia and is forecast to pass through the Arafura Sea.
TC
May 2013 Skywatching guide
May 2013 brings few interesting sky events. This years Eta Aquarid meteor shower will peak on May 6 with expected zenith hourly rate of 55 meteors per hour. We are about to experience annular solar eclipse on May 9/10. Annularity will be visible from northern Australia and the southern Pacific Ocean, with the maximum of 6 minutes 3 seconds visible from the Pacific Ocean east of French Polynesia.
On May 24th, penumbral lunar eclipse will be visible to observers in North and South America, Western Europe and Western Africa. It will be visually imperceptible due to the small entry into the penumbral shadow.Jupiter, Mercury and Venus get together. Virgo Cluster and Sombrero galaxy could be seen by using binoculars. And there’s many more. Watch
Strong and shallow M 5.9 earthquake struck Azores Islands, Portugal
A strong and shallow earthquake magnitude M 5.9 struck Azores Islands, Portugal on April 30, 2013 at 06:25 UTC. Epicenter was located in between Sao Miguel and Santa Maria islands; 29 km (18 miles) ESE of Furnas, Portugal and 58 km (36 miles) E of Ponta Delgada, Portugal. Centro de Vulcanologia e Avaliação de Riscos Geológicos – CIVISA is also reporting a M 5.9 earthquake. Depth is still uncertain. EMSC is reporting epicenter at depth of 2 km, USGS (set by location program) still reports depth of 10 km.
There are 130 000 people within 100 km.
The area is experiencing increased seismic activity (as shown on the map below). Numerous aftershocks were reported after M 5.9 today. Azores are considered as seismically
Strong M 5.3 earthquake off the coast of Antigua and Barbuda
A strong earthquake registered as M 5.3 occurred off the coast of Barbuda, eastern Caribbean, on April 30, 2013 at 06:56 UTC. The epicenter was located in sea, about 50 km off the coast or 37 km (22 miles) WSW of Codrington, Barbuda, 51 km (31 miles) NW of Saint John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, 65 km (40 miles) ENE of Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis, 136 km (84 miles) NNW of Sainte-Rose, Guadeloupe at coordinates 17.488°N, 62.142°W.
USGS reported depth of 48.9 km (30.4 miles) and EMSC registered M 5.4 at depth of 48 km.
Magnitude
5.3
Date-Time
Tuesday, April 30, 2013 at 06:56:47 UTC
Tuesday, April 30, 2013 at 02:56:47 AM at epicenter
Location
17.488°N,
Dust across the Mediterranean Sea
A cloudbank stretched across the Mediterranean Sea from northern Algeria to southern France for the last few days. Saharan dust streaked the clouds, extending hundreds of kilometers from southeast to northwest. One especially noticeable dust plume passed over the island of Mallorca.
The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA’s Terra satellite captured this natural-color image on April 29. National borders and coastlines are marked with black outlines.
The sand seas of the Sahara Desert provide ample material for dust plumes, and dust storms rank among the most frequent natural hazards for many northern African countries. Weather fronts often stir dust, and the same weather front that brought clouds to this region in late April likely also raised the
Etna erupting again – 13th paroxysm in 2013
Strong strombolian activity and frequent ash emissions that continued throughout the whole night on April 27, 2013, were a prelude to the 13th paroxysm (lava fountaining) of this year at Etna’s New Southeast Crater. The strombolian activity had begun already on April 21, just one day after the April 2′ paroxysm.
On the evening of April 26, 2013 a gradual increase in both the eruptive activity and in the volcanic tremor amplitude had started.
Shortly after the sunset on April 27, 2013, the paroxysmal phase began with lava fountains 300-500 m high.
Emission of lava flows from the southeastern and northeastern flanks of the New Southeast Crater cone and from the “saddle” between the two Southeast Crater cones, formed small lava flows toward south and
How did this year’s Lyrids perform?
During the last week, our planet has been passing through debris from Comet Thatcher, source of the annual Lyrid meteor shower. On the nights around April 22nd, while the peak of this years meteor shower was, All Sky Fireball Network (NASA) reported more than 30 Lyrids as bright as Venus. International observers registered as many as 25 meteors per hour.
Here is a diagram of the orbits of Lyrids detected by NASA’s All Sky Fireball network:
The red splat in this diagram marks the location of Earth, the orbits of the meteoroids are green ellipses, triangulated by multiple cameras in the meteor network.
During the last week, our planet has been passing through debris from Comet Thatcher, source of the annual Lyrid meteor shower. On the nights around April
Planetary alignment / earthquake watch - April 27-28, 2013
Two very strong planetary alignments (Mars-Earth-Sun-Saturn), supported by (Mercury-Venus-Jupiter) fall during this time-frame with an added influence involving the Asteroid Ceres and astrological aspects involving Pluto indicate a potential for a 7.8 magnitude earthquake on either one of these forecasted days.This is my own analysis using heliocentric imagery, geocentric portrait and harmonic translations to predict possible effects here on Earth. I am using astrological aspects in this forecast in-conjunction with lunar modulations. Targeting a large Coronal Hole (CH566) in Northern Hemisphere of the solar corona: after further analysis I have isolated an area (16-24°N latitude) this Coronal Hole may itself be a foreshadow for a 7.8 magnitude earthquake in one of these