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This July 14th, 2000 weekend affords a fiesta of atmospheric phenomenon and astronomical events.
By SPACE.com
posted: 06:03 pm ET
14 July 2000
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astronomy_bonanza_000714 This weekend affords a celestial parade of atmospheric phenomena and astronomical events. From auroras to asteroids, SPACE.com brings you the latest news, images and information regarding how and when you can view the following events. Auroras A major solar storm, the largest in six years, developed on Friday, and may cause atmospheric activity resulting in good opportunities for viewing auroras. Viewing potential will be optimal at northern latitudes, but may make auroras visible as low as the mid latitudes. Forecasters at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have said that the effects of this particular solar storm, may cause power-system fluctuations and false alarms on power-system protection devices. There is no known health risk to people on Earth, however satellites and short-wave radio communication may be effected. Click here for an update. Lunar Eclipse A lunar eclipse will take place on Sunday, lasting about two hours and viewable in western North America, the Pacific and the Far East. It will be the longest-lasting eclipse in 140 years. Astronomers say that during this eclipse, the moon will turn a orange-reddish color. Eclipses of the moon can be enjoyed over a period of several hours and can be viewed from any place on Earth where the moon is visible. Click here for details. Asteroid The asteroid Vesta and the Milky Way may be visible during totality of the lunar eclipse. In the southwestern sky at 3:30 a.m. Sunday morning, the asteroid Vesta may be visible. However, the space rock will be more easily visible to those in Hawaii and Australia where the entire total phase of the eclipse can be seen in dark-sky viewing areas. For the story, click here. Comet Linear In the after-midnight sky tonight, Skywatchers might be able to find Comet 1999 S4 LINEAR. Though it is unlikely that the comet will reach naked-eye magnitude, one can use binoculars or a small telescope to locate LINEAR in the sky. For those who have never seen a comet before, this is your opportunity. The iceball has grown a conspicuous tail. Click here to learn more.
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