Latest news with #CME
Yahoo
37 minutes ago
- Science
- Yahoo
Jaw-Dropping Explosions on The Sun Captured in First NASA PUNCH Images
A NASA mission to observe the activity of the solar wind has returned its first images of giant coronal mass ejections (CMEs) billowing out from the Sun. Images from the Polarimeter to Unify the Corona and Heliosphere (PUNCH) were presented at the 246th meeting of the American Astronomical Society, showing these giant events on an unprecedented scale. "I promise you you have never seen anything quite like this," heliophysicist and PUNCH principal investigator Craig DeForest of the Southwest Research Institute said in his presentation. CMEs are huge expulsions of billions of tons of solar plasma and magnetic fields that are blasted out from the Sun, a massive release of energy and solar particles that occurs when the Sun's magnetic field lines tangle, snap, and reconnect. They often, but don't always, occur with solar flares. A halo CME is what we call it when the CME blasts right in the direction of Earth. From our perspective, the expanding ejecta looks to surround the Sun like a halo, before barreling through the Solar System at tremendous speed. "That halo CME is something you have never seen before. I'd like to call your attention to the white circle near the center of the field of view here. That circle represents the LASCO field of view; that is the largest coronagraph currently used to forecast space weather. "You've seen halo CME movies before, if you've paid attention to the science press. But you have never seen one 30 to 40 degrees from the Sun … you're seeing something that is literally washing across the entire sky of the inner Solar System as it comes toward the Earth." In this case, they were able to track a CME as it blasted through the Solar System at 4 million miles an hour until about two hours before it collided with Earth's magnetic field. These events often produce the aurora that light up Earth's polar skies, but can also interrupt communications and damage satellites, so scientists are keen to develop better space weather tracking and prediction tools. PUNCH is just beginning its planned two-year mission to record solar events in 3D, in an attempt to better understand space weather. The four probes aren't quite yet in their final positions, but the team here on Earth is testing the instruments and taking observations. "These are preliminary data. They look good now, but they are going to look fabulous once we are done with calibration later this summer," DeForest said. "This is the first of many, I'm sure, and the best is still to come." SpaceX Starship Explodes in Towering Fireball Astronomers Uncover a Massive Shaft of Missing Matter Our Galaxy's Monster Black Hole Is Spinning Almost as Fast as Physics Allows


Time of India
a day ago
- Science
- Time of India
Sun emits strongest solar flare of the year, causing radio blackouts and communication disruptions, reports NASA
In a burst of solar activity, NASA has said that sunspot region 4114 has unleashed the most powerful solar flare of 2025 so far. Classified as an X1.2-class flare , the most intense category, the eruption occurred on 17 June and triggered widespread shortwave radio blackouts , especially over the Pacific Ocean, including areas such as Hawaii. The flare disrupted frequencies below 25 MHz, affecting communication for aviators and ham radio operators. Although it was not accompanied by a coronal mass ejection (CME), which typically intensifies geomagnetic storms, the flare's sheer intensity was enough to disturb the Earth's ionosphere. Scientists remain on high alert as the active sunspot continues to face Earth. What is an X-class solar flare detected by NASA Solar flares are powerful bursts of radiation from the Sun, and X-class flares are the strongest among them. An X1.2 flare, like the one recorded, is over ten times more intense than an M1-class flare. These events can cause temporary blackouts in the Earth's upper atmosphere by ionising it, disrupting radio signals and communication technologies. What it means for Earth's communications systems by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Spiele kostenlos in deinem Browser - Kein Download oder Installation erforderlich! Taonga Farm Jetzt spielen Undo While this flare did not pose a direct threat to life on Earth, it serves as a strong reminder of the Sun's volatile nature. Disruptions to communication, navigation systems, and satellites are possible with flares of this strength, especially if a CME is involved in future eruptions. Space weather experts continue to monitor the Sun's activity in real time to prepare for any further disruptions. No CME, but still troubling radio systems and other communications Unlike some previous eruptions, this solar flare was not accompanied by a coronal mass ejection or CME. CMEs are plasma clouds that can cause geomagnetic storms and auroras when they strike Earth's magnetic field. Despite this, the flare was intense enough to disturb communications and is being closely monitored for any follow-up activity. Region 4114: a solar flare factory Sunspot region 4114 has been unusually active. According to NOAA and it has fired multiple M-class flares in recent days. While its magnetic field has slightly weakened, it still has the potential to emit more M-class or even X-class flares shortly. The sunspot remains Earth-facing, keeping forecasters and scientists alert. A sign of the solar maximum This event aligns with the current phase of the Sun's 11-year solar cycle, known as the solar maximum. During this period, sunspot activity increases dramatically, making powerful flares like these more likely. NASA and NOAA suggest that this phase began in late 2024 and could peak in 2025.


Business Wire
2 days ago
- Business
- Business Wire
TWO Announces Second Quarter 2025 Common and Preferred Stock Dividends
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- TWO (Two Harbors Investment Corp, NYSE: TWO), an MSR-focused REIT, today declared a dividend of $0.39 per share of common stock for the second quarter of 2025. The second quarter dividend is payable on July 29, 2025 to common stockholders of record at the close of business on July 3, 2025. The common stock dividend is a function of several factors, including sustainability, earnings and return potential of the portfolio, taxable income, impact to book value and the market environment. "We remain tremendously excited about the opportunities available for mortgage companies like TWO, and our paired strategy of MSR and MBS specifically." Share 'The 13% reduction in the dividend this quarter is consistent with the reduction in our book value resulting from the contingency accrual of $198.9 million that we have deemed probable and estimable in connection with the ongoing litigation related to our internalization in 2020. The reduced dividend reflects our projected static returns in future quarters as we adjust our portfolio in light of this accrual,' stated Bill Greenberg, TWO's President and Chief Executive Officer. 'While this litigation remains ongoing and involves claims unrelated to the accrual that are not yet probable or estimable, we think lowering the dividend on a pro rata basis at this time is a prudent action and positions us to take advantage of future market opportunities. Most importantly, this dividend reduction does not reflect our positive momentum, and we remain tremendously excited about the opportunities available for mortgage companies like TWO, and our paired strategy of MSR and MBS specifically.' TWO also declared today the following preferred stock dividends for the second quarter of 2025: (1) The Series C Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock accrue dividends at a floating rate, as determined on each dividend determination date, equal to the Three-Month CME Term SOFR plus 0.26161% plus 5.011%. The Series A, Series B and Series C preferred dividends are payable on July 28, 2025 to the applicable preferred stockholders of record at the close of business on July 11, 2025. About TWO TWO (Two Harbors Investment Corp., NYSE: TWO), a Maryland corporation, is a real estate investment trust that invests in mortgage servicing rights, residential mortgage-backed securities and other financial assets. TWO is headquartered in St. Louis Park, MN. Additional Information Stockholders of TWO and other interested persons may find additional information regarding the company at at the Securities and Exchange Commission's internet site at or by directing requests to: TWO, 1601 Utica Avenue South, Suite 900, St. Louis Park, MN 55416, (612) 453-4100.


Cision Canada
2 days ago
- Business
- Cision Canada
NEW DATA: U.S. TARIFFS CONTINUE TO HAMMER CANADIAN MANUFACTURING, THREATENING JOBS AND INVESTMENT
OTTAWA, ON, June 18, 2025 /CNW/ - As Prime Minister Carney and President Trump commit to finalizing a new economic and security agreement within 30 days, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) is warning that Canada's industrial base continues to suffer escalating damage. New survey data from CME reveals that three in four Canadian manufacturers are experiencing moderate to very severe harm from ongoing U.S. tariffs, undermining investment, employment, and broader economic stability. "The results are clear: tariffs are continuing to inflict serious damage on Canadian manufacturers and their workers—particularly in the steel, aluminum and auto sectors," said CME President & CEO Dennis Darby. "We urge the federal government to build on recent discussions between the President and the Prime Minister to secure a deal for Canada that removes these unjustified trade barriers." MANUFACTURERS TAKING ACTION TO MITIGATE TARIFF IMPACTS To cope with rising costs and market uncertainty caused by U.S. tariffs, manufacturers are actively adjusting their strategies—some of which are already contributing to reduced investment, job losses, and broader economic strain in Canada: 49 per cent are pursuing new export markets 44 per cent have cancelled or delayed investment plans 39 per cent have implemented hiring freezes or layoffs 16 per cent have shifted some production to the U.S. COUNTER-TARIFFS AND REMISSION PROCESS ADD FURTHER STRAIN Canada's retaliatory tariffs—many of which are temporarily paused—are also placing additional pressure on manufacturers: 66 per cent report increased input costs 46 per cent cite disruptions to supply chains and sourcing Just 3 per cent believe countermeasures have improved their competitiveness 22 per cent say they have had no noticeable impact Although the federal government has introduced a tariff remission process, awareness and uptake is low. Only 21 per cent of manufacturers are familiar with the process or have applied. Among those seeking relief: 56 per cent want help determining eligibility 44 per cent are seeking clear, step-by-step guidance on the application process 43 per cent are requesting training and documentation support CUSMA COMPLIANCE REMAINS A CHALLENGE FOR SOME While nearly 70 per cent of manufacturers report completing all required CUSMA documentation for eligible exports, challenges persists: 18 per cent produce CUSMA-compliant goods but have yet to complete the paperwork 35 per cent cite a lack of internal expertise as a barrier 33 per cent report receiving inconsistent guidance from government or trade advisors To support compliance, manufacturers are calling for: 42 per cent – clearer government guidelines, templates and digital tools 29 per cent – more direct access to government trade advisors 26 per cent – expanded training and workshop opportunities MANUFACTURERS CALL FOR STRONGER GOVERNMENT ACTION While recent relief measures are appreciated, manufacturers stress that more decisive action is urgently needed—especially if a deal with the U.S. is not reached in the coming weeks. Their top policy priorities include: 47 per cent – stronger diplomatic efforts to secure tariff exemptions or reductions 47 per cent – targeted tax relief to ease short-term cash flow pressures 34 per cent – temporary financial assistance to minimize layoffs and stabilize operations 30 per cent – a more accessible and efficient tariff remission process The survey, conducted in May and June, includes responses from more than 100 manufacturing firms across Canada. The findings underscore the vulnerability of Canada's manufacturing sector, which directly accounts for over 9 per cent of GDP, employs 1.8 million Canadians, and generates 60 per cent of the country's total goods exports. With more than 80 per cent of Canada's manufactured exports destined for the U.S.—representing over 40 per cent of total sector sales—the industry remains highly exposed to unwarranted U.S. trade actions. ABOUT CANADIAN MANUFACTURERS & EXPORTERS (CME) From the first industrial boom in Canada, CME has advocated for and represented member interests. 150 years strong, CME has earned an extensive and effective track record of working for thousands of leading companies nationwide. More than 85 per cent of CME's members are SMEs and collectively account for an estimated 82 per cent of total manufacturing production and 90 per cent of Canada's exports.


Globe and Mail
2 days ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Trading on FOMC Days
Hello Traders! Tomorrow we have FOMC with rate decision at 1 PM Central and statement at 1:30 pm Central. Trading stock index futures on FOMC days calls for a measured, highly selective approach. The market tends to drift into a low-volume 'vacuum' in the hours leading up to the announcement, where exaggerated price moves can occur without conviction. This is not the time to force entries— no trade is better than a bad trade. It's critical to anticipate these zigzag patterns and avoid being lured into false signals. Reducing trading size is one of the smartest ways to manage risk on these days—volatility spikes can magnify both gains and losses, and scaling down helps preserve capital and composure. Once the FOMC statement hits the wire, the real storm begins. Price action can whipsaw violently as traders digest the language and implications for interest rates. This is when patience pays off. Choosing entry points wisely —often by waiting for post-announcement patterns to stabilize—can mean the difference between catching a favorable trend and getting caught in the chop. Discipline is everything: tight setups, controlled size, and a willingness to sit on your hands if conditions aren't ideal can make all the difference. The FOMC isn't a lottery—it's a test of focus and restraint. Watch a quick video on CME Fed Watch tool HERE Possible outlook for the mini SP 500 below viewing the daily chart: Support and Resistance Levels for major futures for tomorrow below: Good Trading to all of you! Ilan Levy-Mayer, M.B.A Vice President Cannon Trading Co, Inc. Est. 1988 Toll Free: 800-454-9572 Int'l: +310-859-9572 Margins / Commissions / Platforms / Professional Traders / Free Demo Trading commodity futures and options involves a substantial risk of loss. The information here is of opinion only and do not guarantee any profits. Past performances are not necessarily indicative of future results.