The Strangest Space Events That You Have to Survive Until 2040
Space is full of wonders and mysteries, but also of dangers and threats. Some of the most bizarre and terrifying phenomena in the universe could affect our planet and our lives shortly. Here are some of the strangest space events that you have to survive until 2040.
1. The Great Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn
On December 21, 2020, Jupiter and Saturn will appear closer in the sky than they have been since 1623. This rare alignment of the two giant planets, known as the Great Conjunction, will create a bright “star” that some call the “Christmas Star” or the “Star of Bethlehem”. The Great Conjunction will be visible to the naked eye from anywhere on Earth, but the best view will be from the Southern Hemisphere. Although this event is not dangerous, it is a spectacular sight that you don’t want to miss.
2. The Transit of Mercury
On November 13, 2032, Mercury will pass directly between the Earth and the Sun, creating a small black dot on the solar disk. This event, known as the transit of Mercury, happens only 13 or 14 times per century. The transit of Mercury is not visible to the naked eye, but it can be observed with a telescope or binoculars equipped with a solar filter. The transit of Mercury is a rare opportunity to study the innermost planet of the solar system and its thin atmosphere.
3. The Total Solar Eclipse
On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will occur, when the Moon blocks the Sun completely, creating a dark shadow on the Earth. This event, known as the Great North American Eclipse, will be visible from parts of Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The solar eclipse will last about four minutes, depending on the location. The total solar eclipse is one of the most awe-inspiring phenomena in nature, but it also poses some risks. Looking directly at the Sun without proper eye protection can cause permanent eye damage or blindness. Therefore, it is important to use special glasses, filters, or projection methods to observe the eclipse safely.
4. The Arrival of the Mega-comet
In 2031, a massive comet, 50 times bigger than the average comet, will make its closest approach to the Sun. This comet, named C/2014 UN271 (Bernardinelli-Bernstein), was discovered in 2021 and is estimated to be 85 miles (137 kilometers) across. This comet, also known as the mega-comet, is so big that it was initially classified as a minor planet. The mega-comet will not threaten Earth, as it will stay at a safe distance of about a billion miles (1.6 billion km). However, it will be a fascinating object to observe, as it may develop a long tail and a bright coma as it gets closer to the Sun.
5. The Collision of Two Neutron Stars
In 2034, two neutron stars, the dense remnants of massive stars that exploded as supernovas, will collide and merge, creating a powerful burst of gravitational waves and electromagnetic radiation. This event, known as GW170817, was first detected in 2017 by the LIGO and Virgo observatories, which measured the ripples in space-time caused by the merger. The collision of two neutron stars is one of the most violent and energetic events in the universe, and it may produce heavy elements such as gold and platinum. The collision of two neutron stars will not affect Earth directly, but it will be a unique opportunity to test the theories of gravity and matter under extreme conditions.
These are some of the strangest space events that you have to survive until 2040. They are not only fascinating to witness, but also to learn from. Space is full of surprises, challenges, beauty, and wonder.
Bibliography
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3. https://rarest.org/nature/astronomical-events
4. https://newatlas.com/space/weird-astronomy-space-discoveries-2020/
5. https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/strange_offbeat/space_time/
6. https://www.ign.com/articles/astronomical-anomalies-unusual-objects-deep-space
