In the Volgograd region on November 11 is expected unstable geomagnetic situation
Mid-November 2026 gives astronomy enthusiasts and weather-sensitive people the perfect combination of space conditions. While the Sun has reduced its activity to a minimum, the night sky prepares fascinating spectacles that can be observed with the naked eye
Geomagnetic environment
The solar wind slowed down, and the density of plasma flying toward the Earth returned to background values. On November 11, our planet will be in the zone of the so-called geomagnetic calm.
The planetary index Kp, reflecting the level of perturbation of the magnetic field, during the day will not exceed 1.6-2 points. Only in some hours, slight fluctuations up to 3 points are possible, which fits into the framework of the natural norm. The probability of a full-fledged magnetic storm is estimated by scientists at less than 7%. For people who react sharply to space weather, this day will be an excellent opportunity for respite, recuperation and return to the usual rhythm of life.
The Fireballs of the North Taurids
The main astronomical event of the day will be the peak of the North Taurid meteor shower. Earth passes through a plume of debris left behind by the famous comet Encke. The uniqueness of this starfall lies not in the number, but in the quality of shooting stars.
The intensity of the stream is modest – about 5 meteors per hour. However, the Taurids are rightly called the “flow of fireballs”. Comet debris enters the Earth's atmosphere at a relatively low speed, which causes them to burn up long and extremely brightly. Large, slow-flying flashes can be seen in the sky, leaving behind distinct glowing tails. In 2026, the conditions for observations are close to ideal: the young moon will go over the horizon long before midnight, providing a deep dark sky, not “spoiled” by natural illumination.
The Moon and the Heart of the Scorpio
Another beautiful phenomenon will unfold in the evening sky immediately after sunset. The thinnest sickle of the young moon, illuminated by only a few percent, will be at an extremely close distance from Antares – a bright red star known as the Heart of Scorpio.
Visually, the two celestial bodies will approach by only a third of a degree. Observe this picturesque picture can be low above the western horizon in the early twilight. Bright orange-red Antares paired with an elegant ash crescent will be a rare beauty spectacle, which will be an excellent object for astrophotography.
Successful observations on November 11 will require cloudless skies and a lack of bright city lighting.
