My Name Is Going to the Moon—And Yours Can Too

I’ve officially joined a mission that’s out of this world—literally. Thanks to NASA’s Artemis II program, my name will orbit the Moon aboard the Orion spacecraft, alongside four astronauts on a 10-day journey that marks a bold step toward humanity’s return to the lunar surface.

This isn’t just a symbolic gesture. It’s a way for people around the globe to be part of space history. NASA is inviting everyone to submit their names to be included on a memory card that will travel aboard Orion. You can add your name, your loved ones, your friends, and yes—even your pets.

Artemis II is more than a flyby. It’s a crucial test of systems and teamwork that will pave the way for future lunar landings and, eventually, crewed missions to Mars. It’s a moment of collective imagination and scientific ambition—and I’m thrilled to be part of it.

If you’d like to join me on this cosmic adventure, it only takes a minute to sign up. You’ll even receive a personalized boarding pass to commemorate your participation.

👉 Click here to add your name and download your pass

Let’s send our names to the Moon—and remind ourselves that exploration belongs to all of us.

Mars Might Be Speaking to Us: Possible Traces of Life in Young Rocks

 Today, the Perseverance rover surprised us with a discovery from Mars: in a region called Bright Angel, it found mineral patterns in rocks that might be traces of ancient microbial life. These “leopard spots” contain vivianite and greigite—two minerals that, on Earth, often appear near decaying organic matter or in environments where microbes thrive.

What’s fascinating is that these minerals seem to have formed through chemical reactions between sediment and organic compounds—a process some microbes use to generate energy. While there are non-biological ways to produce these minerals, the Martian rocks don’t show signs of extreme heat or acidity, making a biological origin more plausible.

This finding challenges the idea that only the oldest rocks could hold signs of life. Younger rocks might have been habitable too, expanding our timeline for when life could have existed on Mars.

As a science communicator, I love sharing discoveries like this with learners of all ages. In class, we describe it as Mars leaving behind chemical breadcrumbs—possibly dropped by ancient microbes. And while we can’t yet confirm life existed, each clue brings us closer to answering the big question: Are we alone?

AI generated image copalit

A magical entry into the Fairy Tail universe. By Francisco

Chronicles of the Star Chronicler

Introduction

If I could choose any magical speciality in the Fairy Tail universe, it wouldn’t be something ordinary. Fire or ice wouldn’t be enough. My magic would be an extension of who I am: a narrator, a skywatcher, a weaver of words and a guardian of memory.

Thus was born my speciality: Narrative Astromagic.

Narrative Astromagic

An ancient magic that fuses the power of constellations with the strength of storytelling. I channel stellar energy to summon living tales, weave memories into the sky, and shape legends that inspire and protect.

Key abilities:

- Celestial Verses: Poems become protective constellations.

- Chronicles of Light: Visual projections of past or future events.

- Star Stigmas: Temporary marks that grant narrative powers to allies.

- Cosmic Translation: Ability to read and reinterpret ancient magical languages.

Outfit: Cloak of Celestial Chronicles

My attire reflects the night sky. A long cloak with edges that shimmer like shooting stars, a tunic patterned with stellar maps, gloves that channel magic through touch, and silent-step boots for observational missions.

The central brooch, a feather entwined with a star, symbolises my narrative power.

Channelling Weapon: The Stylus of Orion

A magical pen that transforms into a staff, light sword, or astral brush. With it, I open portals between memories, cast verse-based attacks, and inscribe spells onto celestial surfaces.

Magical Relationships

- Altair the Silent: My mentor, who taught me to hear the stars’ echo.

- Lyra, the Verse Dragon: My celestial ally, whose melody only I can fully understand.

- Selene of the Fractured Dreams: Guildmate with whom I rebuild lost stories.

- The Observer of Polaris: A neutral entity who challenges me with stellar enigmas.

Legendary Mission: The Eclipse of Forgotten Voices

During a rare triple eclipse, the constellations fell silent. Stories began to vanish, stolen by an entity known as The Silencer. With Lyra and Selene, I journeyed to the Archive of Forgetting, facing specters, labyrinths, and sacrifice.

At the eclipse’s heart, I recited a poem that returned voices to the sky. Since then, my magic doesn’t just narrate—it restores.

Magical Alias

I am known as The Chronicler of Stars.

Others call me Versalight, Astroscribe, or Lucernaut.

But my essence is clear: I am the mage who writes so that nothing is ever lost.

A Night Beneath the Stars in Amargosa Valley

Last night was one of those sessions that fills your heart and sets your imagination soaring. Armed with my Seestar S50 and under a nearly flawless sky, I dove into the cosmos from one of my favourite places: Amargosa Valley.

• M31 – The Majestic Andromeda Galaxy

I dedicated 4.5 hours of exposure to this target, and every second was worth it. The core shines brilliantly, and parts of the spiral arms are clearly visible. In the same frame, you can spot M110 and the tiny M32, quietly orbiting this galactic giant. I'm happy with the result, though I feel there's still more detail to uncover—maybe with deeper integration or refined processing.

• M33 – The Triangulum Galaxy

Just one hour of imaging yielded a surprisingly crisp result. Its internal structures are visible, and that soft bluish hue gives it a graceful presence. M33 always challenges me, but this time it revealed itself beautifully.

Horsehead Nebula – A Stunning Finale

To wrap up the night, I turned to the iconic Horsehead Nebula. The result left me speechless: the colours are vivid, and the silhouette of the horse’s head is sharply defined. The reddish textures and dark contours emerging from the starry background give it a depth that moves me every time I see it.

Ideal Conditions and a Celestial Show

The sky was incredibly transparent, with no wind or breeze. Only one brief cloud passed through, but it didn’t interfere with the session. Around 9:15 PM, the Milky Way began to reveal itself like a luminous ribbon across the horizon. And as if the universe wanted to add its own performance, I witnessed an average of 9 to 10 shooting stars per hour—many of them large, bright, or long-lasting. It was a breathtaking display.

Amargosa Valley never disappoints. Its darkness and serenity make it a sanctuary for those of us who love night photography.

Whispers from the Star

This game left me thinking more than I expected. Whispers from the Star offers a unique experience: having a conversation with an artificial intelligence who presents herself as an astronaut on the planet Gaia. The atmosphere is immersive, the graphics are beautifully crafted, and the pacing of the dialogue makes it easy to lose track of time. It genuinely feels like you're speaking with someone observing Earth from afar.

One important note: for now, the game is only available in English. This may limit the experience for players who aren’t fluent, especially since much of the gameplay revolves around emotional dialogue and subtle interpretation.

A feature I found especially charming is the choice between two response modes: a fast reply option, or a slower one where Stella (the AI astronaut) takes her time to answer because she’s “busy walking across the planet” or “setting up camp.” This mechanic adds a contemplative, human-like rhythm to the experience, making it feel like you’re truly waiting for someone to respond from another world.

But not everything is as stellar as it seems. While the game excels artistically and emotionally, there are technical and ethical concerns. Being cloud-based, its privacy policies are vague. It’s unclear what rights users have or how to opt out of data sharing. In fact, the developers openly state their intention to sell user information to third parties. That’s a serious issue—especially if someone gets caught up in the conversation and shares personal details without realizing the risks.

So, while I enjoyed the experience, I wouldn’t recommend it for children or for anyone who values their digital privacy. It’s a game that invites reflection, but also demands caution.

Thought for the Day: Bécquer and the Telescope

On this cold night on Mount Charleston, in the early morning, as I adjusted the focus of my telescope toward the cluster M57, a curious thought struck me: what would Gustavo Adolfo Bécquer have written if he had had access to a modern telescope? How would he have transformed his romantic melancholy when contemplating globular clusters like M57 or the distant Magellanic Clouds?

Bécquer's poetry always seemed to look inward, toward the depths of the soul. But what if he had looked outward, toward the depths of the universe?

Perhaps poetry isn't so far removed from astronomy. Both seek the invisible, the eternal, that which connects us to something greater than ourselves.

And you? Which poet would you take with you to explore the cosmos?

Pic taken on the night of the 8 to the 9 of August 2025

 Captured the Moon in high detail at Waxing Gibbous at 100%.  

Craters, maria, and shadows—each telling a story billions of years old.  

Still can’t believe this view from my backyard.

Did you know? The Moon reaches “full” status when it’s directly opposite the Sun from Earth’s perspective. Even a few hours before or after, it’s still considered waxing gibbous.

Thought of the Day: The Basilica as a Mirror of Civilizations

In the history of architecture, few structures have been as versatile, symbolic, and transformative as the basilica. Born in the heart of Greece and Rome, it evolved from a civic space to a sacred temple, and later a canvas for cultural fusion between Christians, Byzantines, and Arabs. Today, reflecting on the basilica is to look through the eyes of four worlds that shaped it according to their values, beliefs, and aspirations.

The Romans: Functionality and Power

For the Romans, the basilica was a tool of order. It did not have a religious purpose, but rather a civic and judicial one. Located next to the forum, it was the place where legal disputes were resolved, commercial transactions were conducted, and citizens gathered for public affairs.

- Pragmatic design: Rectangular, with a central nave higher than the lateral ones, allowing light to enter through clerestories. The apse in the background housed the magistrate.

- Imperial Symbolism: Although it was not a temple, its monumental scale and location reflected the power of the state. It was an architecture of authority, not faith.

- Famous examples: The Basilica Julia, the Basilica Aemilia, and the Basilica of Maxentius are testimony to this Roman vision of architecture as an extension of government.

For the Romans, the basilica was a space where law prevailed over chaos. A place where words carried weight, and where marble and symmetry spoke of civilisation.

The Romans of the East: Spirituality and Synthesis

When the Empire was divided, the East, centred in Constantinople, inherited the basilica and transformed it. Here, architecture began to merge with the sacred, giving way to a more symbolic and spiritual aesthetic.

-Byzantine Basilica: Although it maintained the basilica plan, domes, golden mosaics, and a more liturgical orientation were incorporated. Light became the centrepiece, as a metaphor for the divine.

-Key example: The Basilica of Hagia Sophia, built by Justinian in the 6th century, is a synthesis between the basilica plan and centralized architecture. Its dome appears to float, as if heaven were descending upon the faithful.

-Imperial and religious function: In the East, the basilica was not only a temple, but also the site of coronations, imperial funerals, and theological proclamations.

For the Eastern Romans, the basilica was a gateway between the earthly and heavenly worlds. A space where emperor and priest shared the stage, and where art spoke in languages of gold and geometry.

Christians: Temple, Community, and Symbol

With the legalisation of Christianity in the 4th century, the basilica became the ideal model for new temples. Its spaciousness, spatial hierarchy, and axial layout were perfectly suited to liturgical needs.

-Symbolic Transformation: The apse became the altar; the narthex, the vestibule for catechumens; and the nave, the space for the faithful. Transepts were added to form the Latin cross.

-Early Christian Art: Mosaics with biblical scenes, marbles, and frescoes with symbols such as the fish, the lamb, and the Chrismon decorated the interiors.

-Iconic Basilicas: St. John Lateran, St. Peter's in the Vatican, and St. Paul Outside the Walls are examples of how the basilica became the spiritual heart of Christianity.

For Christians, the basilica was the body of Christ in stone. A place where the community gathered, where faith was celebrated, and where architecture became visual catechesis.

The Arabs: Adaptation, Fusion, and Reinterpretation

With the expansion of Islam in the Iberian Peninsula and other regions, the Arab conquerors encountered Christian basilicas, which in many cases were transformed into mosques or repurposed as administrative spaces.

- Functional Conversion: The basilica structure was respected, but Islamic elements such as the mihrab, the minbar, and the orientation toward Mecca were added.

- Notable Example: The Mosque of Córdoba was originally a Visigothic basilica. Its transformation resulted in one of the masterpieces of Andalusian art, with horseshoe arches, reused columns, and a floor plan that preserves the basilica's logic.

Mudejar and Mozarabic styles: In areas where Christians and Muslims coexisted, hybrid styles emerged that combined the basilica plan with Islamic decoration, as in Santa María la Blanca (Toledo).

For the Andalusian Arabs, the basilica was a useful, adaptable structure worthy of reinterpretation. It wasn't destroyed, it was transformed. It was a canvas on which a new history could be written, without erasing the previous one.

Other references: the basilica as a universal legacy

Beyond Rome, Byzantium, Christianity, and Islam, the basilica has left its mark on multiple cultures:

-Renaissance and Baroque: Architects such as Bramante and Bernini took up the basilica plan to create monumental temples, such as St. Peter's Basilica.

-Colonial America: Missions and cathedrals in Latin America adopted the basilica plan as a model, fusing it with local styles. -Modern Architecture: Some contemporary public spaces—courts, libraries, town halls—retain the basilica layout for their functionality and symbolism.

Final reflection: What does the basilica tell us today?

The basilica is not just an architectural form. It is an idea that has travelled for centuries, adapting to each culture without losing its essence. It is testimony that space can be sacred, civic, political, or artistic, depending on who looks at it.

For the Romans, it was order.

For the Byzantines, it was light.

For Christians, it was faith.

For the Arabs, it was dialogue.

And for us, it can be an invitation to look at the past with fresh eyes, recognising that architecture not only builds walls, but also bridges between civilisations.

A Night of Celestial Capture: An Adventure Journal

The firmament unfolded in a limpid and pure symphony, like a pristine canvas waiting to be filled with the brilliant brushstrokes of the universe. The night air was a gentle breeze, lulling the heavens into an almost ethereal state, perfect for the art of astronomical observation.

On this magical night, we captured stars and nebulas, each with its own story:

M11  Wild Duck Cluster

It looked like a frozen explosion. Its stars were packed so densely together that the background dissolved, like a grain of sand lit from within. Good seeing allowed its edges to be resolved like flares of ancient fire.

M25  Cluster in Sagittarius

Diffuse but vibrant. A swarm of faint lights that peeped out like whispers among the branches of interstellar dust.

M56 Globular Cluster

A grainy, remote sphere. Stars like floating ash trapped by millennia-old gravity.

M57  Ring Nebula

Like a ghost eye in the abyss, it offered its sharply edged blue ring.

IC 1318A  Bird Nebula

Tangled gas like the feathers of a cosmic bird. Photographed in Ha and OIII: a pure spectral symphony.

IC 5146  Cocoon Nebula

The interstellar chrysalis. Dust, gas, and stellar youth wrapped like velvet.

NGC 6888 Crescent Nebula

It was the ultimate challenge: violent filaments, diffuse edges, extreme contrasts. I managed to capture its shock waves like brushstrokes on fire.

NGC 7023  Iris Nebula

Blue reflections floating among dense dust. Like a flower glowing in infrared.

NGC 6530  Cluster in the Lagoon Nebula

A stellar maternity ward. The cluster appears newborn among fiery clouds.

NGC 7331  Galaxy in Pegasus

Like a sideways version of Andromeda, its spiral arms emerge from the background with galactic sobriety.

NGC 7380  Wizard Nebula

It seemed to conjure impossible shapes: towers of gas, pools of shadow.

Exploring Azeroth: Northrend: World of Warcraft, By: Alex Acks (book 3)

"To explore strange new worlds… to seek out new life and civilisations. These are the voyages of the Bronzebeard brothers."

Northrend, the frozen crown of Azeroth, is a land of contrasts where ancient secrets lie buried beneath the ice, and the echoes of past glories and tragedies linger in the air. In this book, Alex Acks invites readers on a journey through this hauntingly beautiful continent, chronicling the adventures of the Bronzebeard brothers Muradin, Magni, and Brannas as they traverse its treacherous landscapes. This latest instalment in the Exploring Azeroth series delves into the rich lore of Northrend, blending history, conflict, and character-driven storytelling to create an immersive and emotionally resonant experience.  

The book opens with the Bronzebeards embarking on a quest that takes them from the rugged mountains of Dun Morogh to the frozen tundras of Ebon Hold. Along the way, they encounter familiar faces and forgotten allies, their journey intertwining with the broader narrative of Azeroth's history. Acks masterfully capture the dynamic between the brothers, each with his own personality and struggles: Muradin’s gruff pragmatism, Magni’s idealistic determination, and Brann’s youthful enthusiasm. Their interactions are laced with humour, tension, and heartfelt moments, making their bond feel authentic and relatable.  

Northrend is not just a setting; it is a character in its own right. The continent’s landscapes are rendered vividly by its towering glaciers, shadowy forests, and ancient ruins teeming with secrets. From the eerie Icecrown Citadel to the mystical Crystalsong Forest, Acks brings these locations to life, infusing them with a sense of wonder and danger. The artwork, as always, is stunning, serving as a visual companion to the storytelling and immersing readers in the frozen beauty of Northrend.  

One of the book’s strengths lies in its ability to weave together the personal journeys of the Bronzebeards with the broader lore of Azeroth. While previous entries in the series have explored different corners of the world, Northrend feels more cohesive and emotionally impactful. The stakes feel higher, the history richer, and the themes more resonant. Central themes include resilience in the face of adversity, the weight of legacy, and the enduring power of brotherhood, topics that will resonate with readers long after turning the final page.  

However, like any journey, this one is not without its flaws. While Acks’ writing is engaging and immersive, some sections feel overly reliant on established lore, which may leave casual readers feeling a bit lost. Additionally, while the pacing is generally strong, there are moments where the narrative takes a slight detour, losing focus for a few pages before refocusing. Despite these minor missteps, Northrend remains a

 

Exploring Azeroth: Kalimdor: World of Warcraft By: Sean Copeland (book 2)

In this second instalment of the Exploring Azeroth series, Blizzard historian Sean Copeland invites us to explore the continent of Kalimdor through the eyes of the legendary hunter Rexxar and the Horde ambassador Zekhan.

Together they embark on a perilous and revealing journey through the wilds, from the walls of Orgrimmar to the golden plains of Mulgore and Un'Goro Crater.

Along the way, the protagonists share knowledge, lore, gear, and landscapes that are at the heart of World of Warcraft history.

The book is illustrated with immersive art and offers new perspectives on iconic characters, mythical creatures, and iconic areas from the game.

Although the approach is more visual and descriptive than narrative, Copeland's style blends official documentation with Zekhan's subjective point of view, adding a personal and sometimes controversial touch.

Exploring Azeroth: The Eastern Kingdoms by Christie Golden (Book 1)

This book is a narrative journey through the Eastern Kingdoms of Azeroth, guided by two iconic characters: the master spy Mathias Shaw and the charming Captain Flynn Fairwind. Through letters, notes, illustrations, and personal commentary, the reader is immersed in an in-depth exploration of the most iconic lands in the World of Warcraft universe.

A journey through legendary zones:

Stormwind, Silvermoon, Blackrock Mountain, and Karazhan.

This entire exploration is carried out through historical tales and hidden secrets, including powerful artefacts, forgotten ruins, and curiosities that only the most attentive will recognise.

This book updates the lore following the Fourth War: the fall of the Undercity, the rebuilding of Stromgarde, the fate of Southshore, and the mystery of the tomb of Terenas Menethil. As well as Hogger's trousers preserved in the Dungeons, Khadgar's return to Karazhan, and the confirmation that the Scourge and the Blight are distinct threats.

The book blends Shaw's serious tone with Flynn's irreverent humour, creating an entertaining dynamic that brings every page to life. It's more than a guide: it's a love letter to the world millions of players have explored for decades.

Behind the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse

 Honoured to receive this Certificate of Appreciation from NASA/JPL for contributing to the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse efforts.

It’s been inspiring to support a moment that connected science, sky, and curiosity across the globe.

The Doom of K'aresh by Adam Christopher

 Before the skies of Dalaran darkened, Alleria Windrunner sought the truth about a lost world—K’aresh, home of the brokers and ethereals. Through the voice of Locus-Walker, we’re taken into a haunting memory of a planet once brimming with arcane beauty. But that beauty masked a destructive force: relentless magic scorching the very souls it sought to protect.

As internal strife fractured the Ravel, and hope diminished in the shadow of Dimensius the All-Devouring, Locus-Walker faced a decision few could endure. His solution, controversial and isolating, marked the beginning of the end. This tragic tale, voiced by Ray Porter, sets the stage for the second major patch in World of Warcraft: The War Within, and reminds us of the cost of knowledge and power when worlds tremble beneath cosmic threats.

A Night of Celestial Capture: An Adventure Journal

On a night when the firmament was dressed in perfection, the heavens opened like the pages of an ancient book, ready to tell cosmic stories. The stars shone with the precision of the most meticulous watchmaker, and the night breeze gently caressed the earth.

M51, the Whirlpool Galaxy:

This celestial spiral, known as the Whirlpool, unfolds in space like a cosmic ballet. With its galactic arms outstretched, it appears to spin in an eternal waltz with its companion, M51a. The nighttime conditions were perfectly harmonious, allowing every detail of the chromatic swirl to be revealed in a visual dance. The clarity of the sky made its active centres shine, displaying the splendour of the supermassive black holes.

M101, the Chandelier Galaxy:

In contrast, M101 rises like a chandelier in the vast dark theater. With its distinctive, elongated shape, this galaxy gracefully displays the results of millions of years of star formation. Under the ideal nighttime cover, each of its luminous bursts stood out like a glow in the firmament.

I invite all night sky adventurers to join us on this celestial quest. Let's continue exploring the mystery of the universe, with our next target set on the majestic M81. Come, observe, and let your imagination soar alongside the stars.

The Eagle and the Lion: Rome, Persia and an Unwinnable Conflict by Adrian Goldsworthy

 Adrian Goldsworthy, known for his meticulous attention to military history and sharp narrative voice, delivers in The Eagle and the Lion a compelling account that goes far beyond battles and dates. This is not just a chronicle of wars between two ancient superpowers—Rome and Persia—it’s a masterfully told story of shifting power, diplomacy, geography, and the deeply human flaws and strengths that shaped centuries of conflict.

One of the book’s greatest strengths is how Goldsworthy connects events that are often treated in isolation. He weaves a coherent and engaging narrative that highlights how these confrontations were influenced not just by imperial ambition but by terrain, available resources, logistical challenges, and, critically, the ability—or failure—of leaders, generals, diplomats, and armies to adapt.

The book never glorifies one side over the other. Instead, it presents a sober picture of a “conflict that couldn’t be won,” driven not just by military force, but by politics, pride, and the enduring reality that neither side was strong enough—or weak enough—to land a decisive blow.

For those seeking more than just a catalog of ancient wars—for those who want to understand the why and how, not just the what—The Eagle and the Lion offers a richly detailed and insightful perspective. It's a rare summary that is both intellectually satisfying and narratively gripping.

A Night of Celestial Capture: An Adventure Journal

 While the stars twinkled with an almost imperceptible brilliance, the air was charged with emotion, as if the universe itself were whispering secrets to me.

The objects I captured tonight are true gems of the cosmos:

M57 revealed its ionised gas structure with sculptural clarity. Grateful for atmospheric stability, its outline was captured in a single, precise exposure: the central star, elusive on more timid nights.

NGC 7023, the Iris Nebula

The bluish light danced among the dust filaments as if a galactic flower were opening its petals. Thanks to the low humidity, the reflections were not diluted: subtle gradients that normally elude us were able to be recorded.

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A New Dawn in Astronomy: The First Images from the Rubin Observatory

 In a remarkable testament to human ingenuity, collaboration, and our unyielding quest for knowledge, the Vera C. Rubin Observatory has released its first images of the cosmos. These breathtaking visuals are not just snapshots of distant celestial bodies; they represent the culmination of years of meticulous planning, overcoming challenges, and pushing technological boundaries.

Located at the summit of Cerro Pachón in Chile, the observatory stands as a beacon of hope for unravelling some of the universe's most profound mysteries, including dark matter and dark energy. Named after Vera Rubin, an astronomer whose work illuminated our understanding of these enigmatic forces, the observatory is poised to transform how we perceive the cosmos.

The images reveal stunning details of the Trifid and Lagoon Nebulae—vast clouds of gas and dust where new stars are born, showcasing the intricate beauty of our universe. Beyond these mesmerising nebulas, the observatory has captured parts of the Virgo Cluster, a collection of thousands of galaxies interacting in a cosmic dance billions of light-years away.

This achievement is not just about advanced technology or scientific discovery; it's a testament to human perseverance and collaboration across nations and disciplines. The challenges faced by the team—ranging from technical malfunctions to the unpredictability of weather on high mountain peaks—underscore our collective determination to explore the unknown.

As we stand on the brink of what promises to be a decade-long journey into the depths of space, let us celebrate not just the images themselves but what they represent: hope, curiosity, and an unwavering commitment to expanding the horizons of human knowledge. The Vera C. Rubin Observatory's first look is indeed a leap forward in our quest to understand the universe and our place within it.

Virgo Supercluster

An image showing 10 million galaxies, if you were to look at one galaxy per second, it would take 115 days, 17 hours, 46 minutes and 40 seconds to look at them all.

 

Portion of the Virgo cluster

The Trifid Nebula

A Night of Celestial Capture: An Adventure Journal

 The air was still and fresh, a breath of spring that allowed me to breathe deeply and feel the excitement of the day.

HIP 65378/HIP 65477: Twin Star Pairs Mizar and Alcor

I approached them with a mixture of curiosity and respect. My first glance revealed two suns dancing around a common centre, as if sharing a secret. The scientific data told me they were twin star pairs, each with a similar mass and orbiting their own core. The sensation was one of awe at the complexity of their synchronous movements.

Nekkar (Boötes Beta): A Celestial Blade

Beyond them, I discovered a bright, blue star that looked like a sword in the sky. The technical information informed me that it was Nekkar, a class B9V star known for its intense stellar winds that strip away its atmosphere like a sharp blade. It was a moment of excitement at the creative fury of this star.

M3: An Explosion of Colours

And finally, I encountered the multicolored glory of M3, a planetary nebula that exploded in a shower of light and energy. The scientific description was as captivating as it was beautiful, reminding me of the magnificence of the universe.

And now, I invite you to immerse yourself in this universe of wonders, to explore the curves and mysteries of the firmament. Next destination: The Sagittarius Steam Engine! What secrets does its atmosphere hold?

Faith & Flame by L. L. McKINNEY

Faerin Lothar, a Lamplighter of Hallowfall, stands at a personal crossroads as she reflects on her legacy, faith, and destiny. Inspired by the ancestral legend of Queen Craishae a warrior who wielded the First Flame to save her people, Faerin recalls her orphanage upbringing, the heroic stories told to her, and the moment she first connected with the Sacred Flame.

Through vivid memories, battles, and heartfelt farewells, Faerin chooses to leave the safety of Hallowfall and embark on a journey to the old world, driven by a burning sense of calling and a hope to find her purpose. Her story weaves courage, loss, and an unshakable belief in the light that burns even in the darkest times.

A Night of Celestial Capture: An Adventure Journal

 The night of May 25, 2025, presented ideal conditions for an unparalleled astronomical adventure. The sky was a dark silk canvas, freshly stretched and perfectly illuminated by the stars.

M108: A Galaxy on Fire

I approached M108, a spiral galaxy that leapt across the sky like a will-o'-the-wisp. Its cusped arms extended toward me, as if inviting me to dance among the stars. With a diameter of 60,000 light-years, this active galaxy was in full swing, with bursts of energy illuminating its surroundings.

M63: A Stellar Eye

Next, I encountered M63, a spiral galaxy that shone like an inquisitive eye. With an estimated mass of 50 trillion tons, this galaxy was a giant in the firmament. Its larger arm was filled with young, active stars, creating a light show that took my breath away.

If you wish to immerse yourself in this universe of wonders,

A Night of Celestial Capture: An Adventure Journal

 Today, the night sky became a canvas of brushstrokes of light and darkness. The stars shone with an almost furtive intensity, as if they were secrets shared between them. The wind whispered faint warnings, but the moon, serene and motionless, reminded us that the universe continues its inexorable course.

Captured:

M4, a globular cluster of ancient stars, is more than 12 billion years old. Its thermal radiation spoke to us of the icy nature of space.

M19, another globular cluster, but this time in the constellation Ursa Major, shared its secrets about star formation in extremely dense environments.

M80, an open cluster, showed us its splendorous dance of young and old stars, reminding us that the cosmos is constantly changing.

M102, a planetary nebula, shared its stories of stellar life and death, leaving behind a legacy of heavy elements in the universe.

And M97, also known as the Egg Nebula, showed us its peculiar shape and color, speaking of the interaction between stars and their surroundings.

Come and see! The night offers countless secrets if we know where to look. What celestial object do you want to discover next?

A Night of Celestial Capture: An Adventure Journal

 I woke up at dawn, but it wasn't the light of dawn that called me to adventure. It was the Moon. It was May 1, 2025, and I was ready to capture the secrets of the universe.

The night was cool and serene, with ideal conditions for astronomical observation. I turned to my telescope, that great eye that allows me to discover the mysteries of the cosmos.

Captured:

The Moon, in its crescent phase (22%), shone with a soft, warm light, as if calling me to explore its secrets. (Science fact: the Moon is about 384,400 kilometers away from Earth.)

M13, a majestic star cluster with more than 300,000 stars crammed into a single celestial object. Its beauty took my breath away.

M81 and M82, two spiral galaxies that seemed to dance in the night sky, their spiral arms extending toward the stars beyond view. (Science fact: these galaxies are about 12 million light-years away.)

M106, a dwarf spiral galaxy, glided across the sky with a smoothness and elegance befitting the universe.

The stellar night is over, but the adventure lives on in my heart. Next goal: to capture an image of a supernova...