This week's sky highlights (June 27–July 6) include several celestial events. On June 27, spot the thin crescent Moon with Mercury nearby. Arcturus and Vega shine prominently overhead. June 28 showcases Vega and Lyra's stars, including the variable Beta Lyrae. On June 29, the crescent Moon aligns with Mars, and the Milky Way graces the Summer Triangle. Saturn's Moon, Titan, casts its shadow on July 1, while the first-quarter Moon appears on July 2. The Milky Way arches brilliantly on July 4. On July 6, the Moon occults Pi Scorpii. Planetary views include Venus, Mars, and Saturn, with Mercury fading. https://skyandtelescope.org/astronomy-news/observing-news/this-weeks-sky-at-a-glance-june-27-july-6/

Merlin, a figure rooted deeply in Celtic tradition, embodies roles as shaman, prophet, magician, and wild man. His legacy endures through Arthurian legends and prophecies, blending native British myths with influences from Greek traditions, such as those of Apollo. Merlin’s visions encompassed pivotal events: Arthur’s rise, the Grail quest, and the fall of kingdoms, reflecting both humanity’s potential and flaws. Despite Arthurian ideals crumbling due to human frailty, Merlin’s enduring presence symbolizes wisdom and the eternal struggle between civilization and wildness, captivating generations through literature, art, and historical lore. https://www.ancient-origins.net/news-myths-legends-premium-preview/merlin-0022134

The upcoming week will feature predominantly sunny skies with high temperatures ranging from 90°F to 99°F and lows between 57°F and 61°F—daytime highs peak at 99°F on Sunday and Wednesday, with slightly cooler temperatures near 90°F by Saturday. Nights remain clear, with consistent lows around the upper 50s. Winds will be steady from the south-southwest at 10 to 15 mph throughout the week. https://www.kcra.com/weather

The upcoming week's weather is expected to be predominantly sunny, with clear nights. High temperatures range from 88°F on Sunday to 96°F on Tuesday and Thursday. Overnight lows fluctuate between 56°F and 60°F. Winds will generally be from the south or south-southwest at 5 to 15 mph, with slightly stronger breezes towards the weekend. Expect a few clouds on Monday and Tuesday nights, but skies will remain mostly clear throughout the week. https://www.kcra.com/weather

Tropical storms are rare in the South Atlantic due to two main factors: cold water and strong wind shear. The Peru Current cools the southeastern Pacific, making it too cold for storm formation, as tropical systems require water temperatures of at least 79°F (26°C). Additionally, strong wind shear in the region disrupts storm development. The absence of the African "wave train," which fosters storm formation in the North Atlantic, also limits activity. Only one hurricane, Catarina in 2004, has formed in this basin. Some storms may have gone unrecorded due to limited historical data and less rigorous naming protocols. https://www.accuweather.com/en/hurricane/why-doesnt-the-south-atlantic-get-many-tropical-storms/1783386

This week's sky highlights the summer solstice on June 20, marking the longest day and shortest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. Observe Mars distancing from Regulus during late twilight. On June 21, catch the waning crescent Moon near Venus before sunrise. Antares shines brightly in Scorpius on June 22. Spot Arcturus and Spica on June 23, and compare Hercules' M13 and M92 clusters on June 24. The New Moon occurs on June 25. Watch Mercury near the crescent Moon on June 26. Arcturus and Vega dominate the night sky on June 27. From June 28-29, explore Lyra, the Summer Triangle, and the Milky Way. https://skyandtelescope.org/astronomy-news/this-weeks-sky-at-a-glance-june-20-29/

From June 13–22, skywatchers can observe several celestial events. Look for the Spring Triangle (Arcturus, Spica, Denebola) and the Summer Triangle (Vega, Deneb, Altair). Mars and Regulus appear close together, showcasing contrasting colors. Titan casts its shadow on Saturn, a rare event visible in western North America. The solstice on June 20 marks the start of summer with the year's longest day. Mercury and Venus are visible near sunset and dawn, respectively, while Saturn rises in the early morning. M13 and M92 globular clusters offer striking views, and Scorpius and Antares shine prominently in the southeast after dark. https://skyandtelescope.org/astronomy-news/observing-news/this-weeks-sky-at-a-glance-june-13-22/

The differences between meteorological and astronomical summer are as follows. Meteorological summer is based on the calendar and temperature cycles, spanning from June 1 to August 31. This method aids in consistent climate data collection and weather forecasting. In contrast, astronomical summer is determined by Earth’s tilt and orbit, starting with the summer solstice around June 20-21 and ending with the autumn equinox around September 22-23. Understanding both definitions helps explain variations in seasonal weather patterns and data reporting. https://www.accuweather.com/en/space-news/meteorological-summer-vs-astronomical-summer-explained/1780019

The upcoming week's weather is expected to feature mostly sunny to clear skies, with high temperatures ranging from 86°F to 98°F. Sunday will be partly cloudy with a high of 90°F, while Monday through Saturday will be predominantly sunny. The hottest days will be Thursday and Wednesday, reaching near 98°F and 95°F, respectively. Night temperatures will remain mild, ranging from 56°F to 60°F. Winds will generally be light to moderate, varying from SSW, SW, W, and S, at speeds of 5 to 15 mph. Expect clear evenings and minimal cloud cover throughout the week. https://www.kcra.com/weather

June is packed with notable space events, highlighted by the summer solstice and Asteroid Day. The summer solstice, marking the longest day of the year, occurs around June 20-21, signaling the start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. Asteroid Day, observed on June 30, raises awareness about asteroid risks and planetary defense. Additionally, skywatchers can look forward to various celestial phenomena, including meteor showers, planetary alignments, and supermoons. These events offer excellent opportunities for stargazing and learning more about the dynamic nature of our solar system. https://www.accuweather.com/en/space-news/summer-solstice-asteroid-day-among-biggest-space-events-in-june/1779315