2023-07-03 06:14:46
Mysterious Blue Spiral Spotted in the Sky Above Subaru Telescope in Hawaii
By Tanya Banner
07/03/2023 05:07
A peculiar blue spiral has been observed in the night sky above the Subaru Telescope in Hawaii, leaving astronomers baffled. The sighting, captured by the National Astronomical Observatory Japan, has sparked curiosity and speculation among stargazers.
While there are numerous luminous objects in the night sky, distinguishing between stars, planets, satellites, and other phenomena can be challenging. To shed light on this matter, experts have shared some tips to help amateur astronomers identify celestial objects.
The cardinal direction and time of observation are crucial pieces of information in determining what has been seen in the sky. If a compass is not readily available, the position of the sun can provide an approximation of the cardinal direction. Familiar phrases such as “The sun rises in the east and sets in the west” can assist in determining the general direction. For instance, in the spring of 2023, the planet Venus will be prominently visible in the western evening sky, often referred to as the “evening star.” Therefore, if a bright light resembling a star is spotted in the western sky during the evening, it is likely to be Venus.
When observing a “bright light” in the sky that appears stationary, it is commonly either a star or a planet. To differentiate between the two, a closer examination is required. Stars twinkle due to the turbulence in Earth’s atmosphere, yielding a flickering effect. In contrast, planets do not exhibit this twinkling phenomenon as they are significantly brighter. Additionally, the utilization of smartphone applications such as Stellarium can aid in identifying celestial objects by providing a digital star map. Observing an object for several nights can also help distinguish planets from stars, as planets move across the night sky, as if wandering from one constellation to another.
If a “bright light” is seen moving rapidly across the night sky, it could be either a satellite or an airplane. One can differentiate between the two by observing their behavior. Airplanes are known to flash and may have blinking green or red lights. Satellites, on the other hand, do not blink and move across the sky as steady points of light before suddenly disappearing. Experience and the use of satellite-tracking applications like Stellarium or Heavens Above can aid in identifying specific satellites, such as SpaceX’s “Starlink” satellites known for appearing in grouped formations.
Aside from these familiar celestial sightings, there have been more unconventional reports that have even prompted individuals to contact UFO call centers. The Central Research Network for Extraordinary Celestial Phenomena (CENAP) has explained that these sightings often involve balloons, drones, or the confusion caused by the “Starlink” satellites. Shortly after their launch, the “Starlink” satellites appear close together, resembling a trail of lights in the sky, prompting observers to describe the phenomenon as a “string of lights.”
Rocket launches can also create peculiar sights in the sky. For instance, when a rocket stage emits its remaining fuel, a spiral pattern can form. Additionally, rocket parts burning up or the separation of a rocket stage can be observed. Falling stars, meteors, and fireballs are natural occurrences that capture attention as well. These events involve space rocks entering Earth’s atmosphere and burning up. A database exists to record fireball sightings, providing both information and a platform to report personal sightings.
As technology continues to evolve, assistance from machines, such as AI, has been implemented in the creation of this article. Nonetheless, editor Tanja Banner has meticulously reviewed the content before publication to ensure accuracy and quality.]
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