Sun and Space Weather

Our active Sun creates solar storms, solar wind and other phenomena. Explore the Sun and how space weather can impact the Earth.

Meet the Sun

The Sun is the closest star to Earth and is the center of our solar system. Learn about fun Sun facts.

Solar Active Regions: Sunspots on the left and UV image of the Sun on the right

The Active Sun

The Sun is an active place! Learn about the many different types of solar phenomena.

Diagram illustrating the relentless magnetic activity of the Sun directly influencing the near-Earth environment. Image credit: NASA Goddard Space Flight Center.

What Is Space Weather and How Does It Affect the Earth?

Magnetic storms from the Sun can interact with Earth's atmosphere, creating spectacular auroras but also disrupting systems that we depend upon.

The Sun's corona shines out from behind the black disk of the Moon during a solar eclipse.

How Do We Study the Sun?

We study the Sun using ground-based telescopes but also from satellites and spacecraft that are able to get closer to the Sun than ever before.

image of the Sun taken from space, with Earth's horizon in the foreground

The Sun's Energy: An Essential Part of the Earth System

Without the Sun, life on Earth would not be possible. The energy we receive from the Sun provides light and heat, drives our planet's winds and ocean currents, helps crops grow, and more.

During an annular eclipse the dark Moon is surrounded by a bright ring of light from the Sun.

Solar Eclipses

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon is perfectly aligned between the Sun and the Earth. There are three different types of solar eclipses - total, annular, and hybrid.