Episode

Orbits and Oceans of Stars — April 16, 2026

Podcast: Space News and Weather Today – Auroras, Rocket Launches & Night Sky Viewing
Published: Apr 16, 2026
Duration seconds: 113
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Summary

NASA prepares for a major milestone in the Artemis program as the Space Launch System core stage moves for assembly. The episode also tracks upcoming asteroid flybys and solar activity affecting the northern lights.

Topics

NASA
Artemis Program
Space Launch System
Asteroids
Astronomy
Solar Activity
Space Weather
Rocket Launches

Highlights

Main idea: NASA is rolling the largest section of the SLS rocket for the upcoming Artemis II mission
Practical takeaway: Look to the western horizon tonight to spot a brilliant Venus and a fleeting Mercury
Main idea: Asteroid 2026 GM1 will pass near Earth at three times the moon's distance with no impact risk
Main idea: Increased solar sunspot activity may trigger moderate aurora displays in far northern latitudes
Practical takeaway: A China Long March 2D launch is scheduled from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center

Chapters

0:30 Artemis SLS Assembly Update: Details on the movement of the Space Launch System core stage at the Michoud Assembly Facility.
0:40 Asteroid 2026 GM1 Flyby: Information on the upcoming close approach of a small building-sized asteroid.
1:00 Night Sky Stargazing Guide: Where to find Venus and Mercury in the evening sky.
1:10 Global Launch Watch: Upcoming Long March 2D launch from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center.
1:30 Solar Activity and Aurora Forecast: Updates on sunspots, potential solar flares, and aurora borealis visibility.