Sun
Sun news: Another X flare, as geomagnetic storms sweep Earth
Sun news for July 5, 2026: New sunspot region AR4482 announced itself with a powerful X1.3 flare. While auroras lit up the sky. More action is on the way!
Space
How a planet survived the death of its sunlike star
Scientists have solved the mystery of how a gas giant planet survived the death of its star. The planet migrated inward after the star's red giant phase.
Astronomy Essentials
Tonight

Visible planets and night sky guide for July

EarthSky's visible planets and night sky guide. Tomorrow, the Earth is farthest from the sun. And don't miss a video with the 5 best sky sights of July!
Constellations

Ursa Minor the Lesser Bear contains the Little Dipper

Ursa Minor is the Lesser Bear, but you might recognize it as the Little Dipper. Also, its brightest star is Polaris, the North Star.
Space

The Milky Way’s arms might not look as we thought

The Milky Way's arms might be farther away than we thought, meaning our galaxy is likely larger than previously believed. Here's how they made the measurements.
Human World

How do fireworks get their beautiful colors?

The red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple colors exploding in the night sky during a fireworks festival are created by the use of metal salts.
Space

Top 10 cool things about stars that you probably didn’t know

Here's a collection of 10 cool things about stars that you probably didn't know. Big stars, green stars, black holes, stars by the millions, and more!
Space

Groundbreaking Swift spacecraft rescue mission launches

NASA's LINK spacecraft is on its way to save the Swift space telescope. LINK launched earlier today from Kwajalein Atoll in the South Pacific Ocean.
Earth

Dog days of summer: Hottest in July and August

The dog days of summer are named for the Dog Star Sirius - the brightest star in the sky - in the constellation Canis Major the Greater Dog. Learn why here.
Space

Complex carbon in Mars rocks: Another clue to past life?

Scientists have found complex carbon in Mars rocks that the Perseverance rover has studied. They're the same rocks found in 2024 to contain hints of life.

2026 Donation Campaign

If EarthSky has ever helped you discover something new, prepare for an eclipse, spot a planet, or simply inspired a moment of wonder, today is the perfect day to give back. Your donation helps keep trusted science news, expert night sky guides, and independent science journalism free for everyone.

Please help keep EarthSky going by donating today!

Please help keep

EarthSky going!

If you've already donated, we apologize for the popup and greatly appreciate your support.