India’s Aditya-L1 Uncovers How Solar Storms Change Shape on Their Journey Through Space
India's first space-based solar observatory, Aditya-L1, has helped scientists uncover an important detail about how powerful eruptions from the Sun develop as they move into space. New research based on the spacecraft's observations shows that these enormous bursts of solar material do not always spread evenly in every direction. Instead, they can expand asymmetrically, forming tilted and irregular structures.
The finding could improve scientific understanding of space weather and help researchers develop better methods to estimate how solar eruptions travel towards Earth. Such predictions matter because powerful solar events can disturb satellites, radio communication, navigation systems and other technologies that depend on conditions in space.
The research was conducted by scientists at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru, an autonomous institution under the Department of Science and Technology. The team combined observations from Aditya-L1 with images from NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO) and computer-based three-dimensional modelling.
The study was published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters and examined a coronal mass ejection (CME) observed on August 5, 2024.
A solar eruption that did not behave like a symmetrical bubble
A coronal mass ejection is a large release of plasma and magnetic field from the Sun's outer atmosphere, known as the corona. These eruptions can send vast quantities of electrically charged material into interplanetary space.
Scientists have often used simplified models in which a CME expands outward in a relatively symmetrical, bubble-like form. Such models help explain the general movement of solar material, but they may not capture every detail of an actual eruption.
The August 2024 event provided evidence of a more complicated process. Researchers found that the eruption expanded unevenly and had an inclined structure. A model assuming equal expansion in all directions could not reproduce the observations, while a model incorporating a tilted axis and unequal sideways expansion produced a much closer match.
This distinction is important because the shape of an eruption can influence how it moves through the surrounding solar wind.
How Aditya-L1 detected movement invisible in ordinary images
A major contribution came from the spacecraft's Visible Emission Line Coronagraph, known as VELC. The instrument observes the Sun's corona and studies light emitted by highly heated material.
The research team used a technique called Doppler spectroscopy to understand the movement of plasma. When material moves towards an observer, the wavelength of its emitted light shifts towards the blue end of the spectrum. When it moves away, the wavelength shifts towards the red end.
VELC recorded two distinct spectral features during the eruption. These indicated that different portions of the expanding solar material were moving both towards and away from the spacecraft's viewing direction.
Images from NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory showed how the eruption spread across the plane of the sky. Aditya-L1's spectroscopic measurements added information about movement along the line of sight. By combining these different observations, scientists could reconstruct a more complete three-dimensional picture of the event.
The researchers then developed a geometric and kinematic model to test possible explanations. The model showed that a tilted CME structure with uneven lateral expansion could reproduce the unusual spectral pattern much more successfully than a symmetrical expansion model.
Why the discovery matters for Earth
The shape of a coronal mass ejection is not simply a visual detail. It can influence how the eruption interacts with the solar wind as it travels through the heliosphere, the region of space dominated by the Sun's influence.
Different parts of an irregular eruption may experience different levels of resistance, or drag, from the surrounding solar wind. This can change the speed at which the material travels and affect estimates of when it might reach Earth.
Accurate arrival-time predictions are important for space-weather monitoring. If a CME is directed towards Earth and carries a strong magnetic field, its interaction with Earth's magnetosphere can trigger a geomagnetic storm.
Depending on its strength and orientation, such a storm can affect satellite operations, high-frequency radio communication, navigation signals and electrical power infrastructure. It can also increase radiation exposure risks for astronauts and spacecraft operating in space.
However, the latest research does not establish that the August 2024 eruption caused a major impact on Earth. Nor does it indicate that a powerful solar storm is about to strike the planet. Its importance lies in improving the understanding of how solar eruptions develop close to the Sun and how their movement can be estimated.
Aditya-L1's role in solar research
Launched by the Indian Space Research Organisation in September 2023, Aditya-L1 is India's first dedicated space-based solar observatory. It operates around the Sun-Earth L1 point, approximately 1.5 million kilometres from Earth towards the Sun.
This location allows the spacecraft to observe the Sun continuously, giving researchers an uninterrupted view that is valuable for studying solar activity and changes in the corona.
The mission carries seven scientific payloads designed to investigate different aspects of the Sun. VELC is its primary payload and is specifically designed to study the solar corona, including the early stages of coronal mass ejections.
The latest study demonstrates the value of combining spectroscopy with conventional imaging. Images can show where an eruption is spreading across the sky, while measurements of wavelength shifts can reveal whether material is moving towards or away from the observer. Together, these techniques provide a richer picture of the event.
What scientists will investigate next
Researchers plan to apply the technique to additional coronal mass ejections. Studying a larger number of events will help establish how consistently VELC can reconstruct the three-dimensional structure, direction and speed of solar eruptions from a single viewing position.
This could eventually contribute to more reliable space-weather models. Better information about the early shape and movement of a CME may help scientists refine estimates of its journey through space and assess possible effects on Earth.
For India, the result also highlights the growing scientific contribution of Aditya-L1. The mission is not only observing solar activity but also providing measurements that can test existing scientific assumptions.
The central message from the research is that solar eruptions are more complex than simplified models may suggest. Understanding their changing shape near the Sun could become an important part of improving forecasts of space weather and protecting the technology that modern societies increasingly depend on.
November 2026 Night Sky Guide: Meteor Showers, a Supermoon and a Historic Voyager Milestone
November 2026 is bringing several exciting opportunities for skywatchers, with meteor showers, a close apparent pairing of Mars and Jupiter, and a bright supermoon among the month's highlights. NASA's latest skywatching guide also points to a historic milestone for Voyager 1, the spacecraft that has travelled farther from Earth than any other human-made object.
The month offers something for both experienced astronomy enthusiasts and beginners. Most of the featured events can be observed without a telescope, provided the weather cooperates and the viewing location has a reasonably clear sky.
From the Taurid meteor showers in early November to the Leonids later in the month, observers will have several opportunities to watch natural objects streak across the night sky. The planetary pairing in mid-November and the full supermoon on November 24 provide additional reasons to look up.
Taurid Meteor Showers Bring Opportunities to Spot Fireballs
The first major skywatching attraction is the Southern Taurid meteor shower, which is expected to reach its peak around November 5.
The Taurids are known for producing occasional bright meteors, sometimes called fireballs. Although the shower generally produces only a small number of meteors per hour, particularly bright events can make it worth watching.
The Northern Taurid meteor shower follows, reaching its expected peak around November 12. Under ideal viewing conditions, observers may see approximately five meteors per hour.
Meteor showers occur when Earth passes through streams of dust and small particles left behind by comets or asteroids. When these particles enter Earth's atmosphere at high speed, friction and compression heat the surrounding gases, creating the bright streaks commonly called shooting stars.
The name Taurids comes from the constellation Taurus, the region of the sky from which the meteors appear to originate. This apparent point is known as the radiant. The meteors themselves can appear across a much wider area of the sky.
For the best experience, observers should find a dark location away from streetlights and brightly illuminated buildings. Allowing the eyes approximately 30 minutes to adjust to darkness can improve visibility.
A telescope is generally unnecessary for meteor watching because meteors can appear across a broad section of the sky.
Mars and Jupiter Will Appear Close Together
Another highlight arrives on November 15 and 16, when Mars and Jupiter will appear close together in the early-morning sky.
NASA's guide indicates that the two planets will appear approximately 1.2 degrees apart. From Earth, this will create an attractive pairing, with bright Jupiter appearing near the reddish planet Mars.
The best opportunity to observe the planets will be before sunrise. Observers should look towards the southeastern sky, provided the horizon is not blocked by buildings, trees or other obstacles.
Both planets can be seen without specialised equipment under suitable conditions. Binoculars may help observers appreciate the surrounding star field, while a telescope can reveal additional planetary details.
Despite their apparent closeness, Mars and Jupiter will remain separated by enormous distances in space. Their alignment is a matter of perspective: from Earth, the planets appear near one another because of their positions along our line of sight.
Watching them over several mornings can also reveal how their apparent positions change against the background stars.
Voyager 1 Approaches an Extraordinary Distance Milestone
One of November's most significant space-related events concerns NASA's Voyager 1 spacecraft.
Launched in 1977, Voyager 1 was designed to explore the outer planets before continuing its journey into interstellar space. Decades later, the spacecraft remains an extraordinary example of long-duration space exploration.
According to NASA's November skywatching guide, Voyager 1 is expected to reach the milestone of one light-day from Earth during the month. A light-day is the distance light travels in 24 hours, approximately 25.9 billion kilometres.
At that distance, a radio signal travelling at the speed of light would take roughly 24 hours to travel one way between Earth and the spacecraft. Sending a command and receiving a response would therefore involve a communication delay of approximately two days, excluding other operational delays.
The milestone illustrates the enormous distances involved in exploring beyond our solar system.
NASA has also highlighted November 17 for its planned “Shine Bright for Voyager's Light-Day” activity, inviting people to take part in recognising the spacecraft's remarkable journey.
Voyager 1 cannot be observed with the naked eye. Its importance lies in its scientific achievements and the information it continues to provide about the environment beyond the Sun's immediate influence.
November 24 Brings a Full Supermoon
The month's final major skywatching attraction arrives on November 24, when the full Moon will appear as a supermoon.
The term supermoon is commonly used when a full Moon occurs near the closest part of its orbit around Earth. Because the Moon follows a slightly elliptical orbit, its distance from our planet changes throughout the month.
When a full Moon occurs relatively close to Earth, it can appear somewhat larger and brighter than a typical full Moon. However, the difference may be subtle to casual observers.
For the best view, look towards the eastern horizon around sunset as the Moon rises. Buildings and other obstacles can affect visibility, so a location with an open horizon is preferable.
The Moon may appear especially large when it is near the horizon. This familiar effect is commonly known as the Moon illusion, which relates to how the human brain perceives the Moon against objects on the landscape rather than a substantial increase in its actual size.
NASA's guide describes November's full supermoon as the beginning of three consecutive supermoons spanning November, December and January.
Unlike meteor showers, the full Moon is easy to observe from many locations, although clouds, haze and local light conditions can affect the experience.
How to Make the Most of November's Night Sky
Skywatching does not require expensive equipment. A clear view of the sky, patience and a little planning can make the experience rewarding.
For meteor showers, choose a dark location and give your eyes time to adjust. For the Mars-Jupiter pairing, check the southeastern horizon before sunrise. For the supermoon, an unobstructed eastern horizon around sunset offers a good viewing opportunity.
Local weather and atmospheric conditions will influence what people can see. Light pollution can reduce the visibility of fainter meteors, while clouds may prevent observations altogether.
The events will also appear differently depending on the observer's location and local sunrise and sunset times.
November's skywatching calendar offers a reminder that space exploration is not limited to rockets and distant spacecraft. The night sky provides opportunities to observe planetary motion, meteor activity and the changing appearance of the Moon directly from Earth.
With several events spread across the month, November 2026 promises an engaging combination of astronomy, natural spectacle and a milestone in humanity's continuing journey into space.
A Hidden World Beyond Pluto Could Become the Solar System’s Sixth Recognised Dwarf Planet
Astronomers have identified a distant object beyond Pluto that could become the Solar System’s sixth officially recognised dwarf planet. Provisionally designated 2026 ED138, the icy body was detected in observations from the NSF–DOE Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile. Early estimates suggest that it may be between 600 and 1,500 kilometres in diameter, potentially placing it among the largest known objects in the distant outer Solar System.
The discovery is attracting scientific attention because objects of this size can provide important clues about how the Solar System formed and evolved. However, researchers have not yet confirmed that ED138 meets all the requirements to be classified as a dwarf planet. Further observations are needed to establish its size and determine whether its own gravity has shaped it into a roughly spherical form.
What Is 2026 ED138?
2026 ED138 is a trans-Neptunian object, meaning it travels around the Sun in the distant region beyond Neptune’s orbit. Its estimated distance is approximately 46 astronomical units from the Sun. One astronomical unit is the average distance between Earth and the Sun, approximately 150 million kilometres.
For comparison, Neptune orbits the Sun at an average distance of about 30 astronomical units, while Pluto’s average distance is roughly 39.5 astronomical units. ED138 therefore occupies a region of the Solar System where sunlight is weak and temperatures are extremely low.
Scientists believe the object is likely to contain substantial amounts of ice, as many bodies in the outer Solar System do. Its exact composition, surface characteristics and physical dimensions remain uncertain.
The estimated diameter range of 600 to 1,500 kilometres is based on its observed brightness, distance and assumptions about how much sunlight its surface reflects. A highly reflective object can appear brighter than a darker object of the same size, so brightness alone cannot establish its precise dimensions.
If additional observations confirm that ED138 is sufficiently large and rounded by its own gravity, it could qualify as a dwarf planet. Until then, it remains a candidate rather than a confirmed member of that category.
How Did Astronomers Find the Object?
The discovery emerged from the analysis of observations collected by the Vera C. Rubin Observatory earlier in 2026. On October 13, astronomer Matthew Holman of the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian was examining data using a computer program developed with colleague Kevin Napier.
The software is designed to search through enormous numbers of detections and identify patterns that reveal moving objects in the sky. Most distant objects appear as faint points of light, making them difficult to distinguish from the far greater number of stars and other background sources.
The search identified ED138 as an unusually bright object at a considerable distance from the Sun. Its apparent brightness suggested that it might be substantially larger than many other bodies found in the same region.
Researchers then checked the result against additional observations to make sure the detection was genuine. The team found that the Rubin Observatory had recorded the object 30 times across 20 nights between March 4 and July 11, 2026.
Astronomers also located older observations from other facilities, including archival images dating back to 2016. These records helped scientists reconstruct the object's movement over a longer period and improve their understanding of its orbit.
Finding older images of an object after its discovery is particularly valuable in astronomy. It allows researchers to extend the observational record without waiting years for new measurements. A longer record can improve orbital calculations and help determine where a distant object will appear in the sky in the future.
Why Was It Not Discovered Earlier?
One reason ED138 remained unidentified is the crowded region of the sky in which it was observed. The object lies near the plane of the Milky Way, where numerous stars and other sources of light can make faint moving bodies difficult to detect.
Traditional searches can struggle to distinguish a slowly moving object from the dense background of stars. A telescope may record the object without immediately revealing that the same point of light has shifted between observations.
The Rubin Observatory is designed to address this challenge by repeatedly surveying the sky and collecting large volumes of high-resolution data. Its powerful camera and automated analysis systems help scientists identify changes that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Rather than relying on a single image, researchers can compare observations taken on different dates and look for consistent movement. Combining those observations with archival data can make it possible to identify objects that were present in earlier images but were not recognised at the time.
ED138 demonstrates how improved data analysis can uncover objects that are already within existing astronomical records. The discovery does not necessarily mean the object recently entered the Solar System; it means scientists have now identified and tracked it as a distinct body.
What Makes a Dwarf Planet Different From a Planet?
A dwarf planet is a body that orbits the Sun and has enough mass for its own gravity to pull it into a nearly round shape, but has not cleared the neighbourhood around its orbit of other objects.
This distinction became widely known in 2006, when the International Astronomical Union adopted a formal definition of a planet that resulted in Pluto being classified as a dwarf planet.
The five dwarf planets recognised by the International Astronomical Union are Pluto, Ceres, Eris, Haumea and Makemake. Ceres is located in the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, while the other four lie in the outer regions of the Solar System.
ED138 would potentially become the sixth member of this recognised group if its physical characteristics satisfy the relevant criteria and its status is formally accepted.
Its possible size makes it particularly interesting. A body several hundred kilometres across may have experienced enough internal gravitational pressure to become rounded, but scientists need more precise measurements before drawing a firm conclusion about this object.
What Happens Next?
The next stage involves observations capable of narrowing down ED138’s physical size. Infrared measurements are especially useful because astronomers can study the heat emitted by an object, helping them estimate its dimensions more accurately.
The difficulty is that ED138 is extremely distant and faint. Obtaining reliable measurements will require sensitive instruments and careful analysis. Researchers also need to refine its orbital information so that future observations can target it accurately.
Confirmation could take time, and the object’s provisional designation should not be mistaken for an official name or a final classification.
If ED138 is confirmed as a dwarf planet, it will add a significant new member to the known population of large bodies beyond Neptune. If it does not meet the criteria, it will still remain an important discovery and a useful subject for studying the outer Solar System.
Why This Discovery Matters
The potential discovery highlights how much remains unknown about the Solar System’s distant outskirts. Beyond Neptune lies a vast population of icy objects left over from the early stages of planetary formation. Studying these bodies can help researchers investigate how material accumulated, how planetary gravity influenced smaller objects and how the Solar System developed over billions of years.
The discovery also illustrates the value of long-term astronomical surveys. The Rubin Observatory is beginning a decade-long programme to repeatedly image the southern sky, creating a growing record of objects that change position or brightness over time.
As researchers develop better methods to analyse these observations, additional distant objects may emerge from data that would once have been too difficult to examine in detail.
The key point is that 2026 ED138 is a confirmed astronomical object but only a candidate dwarf planet. Its estimated size makes it an exciting discovery, yet further observations must establish its physical properties before its final classification can be determined.