What is Space Weather?
The Sun sends an ever-changing stream of charged particles our way. The barrage of energy excites the aurora (Northern and Southern lights) and sometimes threatens satellites and electrical grids. Debris left behind by comets (and some space missions) create meteors and meteor showers. Together, it's all space weather.

Anatomy of The Sun
See inside our favorite star! This simple but detailed page shows how all the parts come together, inside and out. Learn the names of each region of the Sun, and the main things that shoot outward.

The Sun And Its Energy
The big burning ball of gas that holds nine major planets in orbit is not unlike many stars in the universe. The Sun makes up 99.86 percent of the solar system's mass and provides the energy that both sustains and endangers us. How does it work?

What is a Solar Maximum and What Happens?
Every 11 years or so, changes in our star's magnetic field bring on an increase in sunspots, solar flares and events called coronal mass ejections. The peak is right now.

Photo Galleries
Browse images of solar storms and the aurora.

SPACE.com Cams
Live views of the Sun and Earth, plus auroral activity.