0:40Video · The Sun and Space Weather
A Solar Storm Set Telegraphs on Fire
In 1859, the aurora became part of the electrical grid.
The Observation Deck
See the universe differently.
Space science, astronomy, and observing guides built around one unforgettable idea at a time.
Topic-first. Source-linked. Built for curious beginners and active observers.
Featured story · 1:15The Asteroid That Turned Air Into a Bomb
Tunguska flattened a forest without making a crater: the atmosphere became the weapon.
Featured constellation
The Sun and Space Weather
Read the star that powers Earth—from ancient photons to modern grid risk.
Trending in the StarPixels sky
Start with the ideas that change how you see the sky.
0:401:15Video · Cosmic Impacts and Planetary Defense
The Asteroid That Turned Air Into a Bomb
Tunguska flattened a forest without making a crater: the atmosphere became the weapon.
0:50Video · Your Moving Universe
You Have Never Been in the Same Place Twice
Standing still is only a local illusion; Earth carries you through a path that never closes.
5:06Video · Worlds Gone Wrong
Earth’s Twin Went Wrong—Here’s How
Venus began with Earth-like ingredients and became a world that melts lead.
1:32Video · The Sun and Space Weather
The Sun Has a Hidden Heartbeat
We mapped the inside of a star by watching its surface tremble.
1:31Video · Hidden Physics
There’s a Real Sound Coming From a Black Hole
Space can carry sound when it contains enough gas—and one cluster has been resonating for billions of years.
Choose your route
Follow a connected set of stories
Latest field notes
What the sky taught us
SkyNotes · Published archive
StarPixels SkyNotes: Week of September 9–16
An archived weekly sky briefing preserved at its original URL.
By Rick Wood · Updated July 16, 2026Gear that earns its place
Choose by problem, not commission
Start with binoculars
Portability and field of view beat magnification.
A practical starting point based on what works in the field.Read the decision guide →Choose a first telescope
A stable mount and easy setup usually beat a longer accessory list.
No affiliate links yet — recommendations go live only after Rick has used the gear himself.Read the decision guide →Build a comfortable field kit
Comfort is not glamorous, but it increases observing time.
General field advice; no product endorsement.Read the decision guide →Continue the journey
The Asteroid That Turned Air Into a Bomb
What the 1908 Tunguska airburst reveals about impact energy, missing craters, and planetary defense.