Asteroid And ‘Planetary Alignment’ Aren’t The Only ‘Bad Omens’ In 2025

Forbes - Mar 8th, 2025
Open on Forbes

In 2025, a series of celestial events is set to captivate skywatchers and evoke ancient superstitions. These events include red auroras, total lunar eclipses, and the anticipated 'going nova' of the star T CrB in the constellation Corona Borealis. Historically, such occurrences have been viewed as ominous signs. For instance, red auroras were once believed to portend significant earthly events, and lunar eclipses were linked to the fall of rulers in ancient Mesopotamia. However, these phenomena are now understood to be natural and predictable, offering stunning displays rather than foreboding messages. The total lunar eclipses in March and September 2025 will cast a reddish hue over the moon, a spectacle often referred to as a 'blood moon.' Meanwhile, T CrB’s nova, a rare event occurring approximately every 80 years, will be visible for a couple of weeks, adding to the year's astronomical highlights.

The context of these events lies in their scientific explanations and historical interpretations. The red auroras expected during the solar maximum occur due to magnetic storms pushing the typical green auroras further south, often appearing red due to high altitudes. Total lunar eclipses, while visually striking, happen frequently and are devoid of the chaos once attributed to them. The potential nova of T CrB is a predictable stellar event, reflecting a lifespan of a star 3,000 light-years away, whose light is only now reaching Earth. These celestial phenomena, captivating as they are, serve as a reminder of humanity’s evolving understanding of the universe and the shift from mythological interpretations to scientific curiosity and wonder.

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.0
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The article provides an intriguing look at celestial events expected in 2025, blending historical interpretations with scientific insights. It effectively captures public interest by discussing the cultural significance of these phenomena, but it lacks depth in scientific explanation and transparency in sourcing. The narrative is clear and accessible, making it engaging for a general audience, though the absence of expert commentary and detailed data limits its authority. While the article offers a balanced view of historical and scientific perspectives, it could benefit from more thorough exploration of the scientific basis for these events and their contemporary significance. Overall, it serves as an engaging introduction to the topic but requires additional depth and source transparency to enhance its credibility and impact.

RATING DETAILS

7
Accuracy

The article presents various astronomical events expected in 2025, alongside historical interpretations of these phenomena as omens. The factual basis for the celestial events, such as the total lunar eclipses on March 13/14 and September 7/8, 2025, is accurate and verifiable through astronomical predictions. However, the claim about a rare 'planet parade' where all seven planets are visible simultaneously needs further clarification, as planetary alignments do not occur in a perfect line visible from Earth. The mention of red auroras appearing in more southerly latitudes during solar maximum is scientifically plausible, though the specific details about their visibility require more precise data. The historical context, such as the aurora sighting before Julius Caesar's assassination, is anecdotal and lacks rigorous historical evidence. The article blends scientific facts with cultural interpretations, which may lead to some confusion about the distinctions between verifiable events and historical myths.

6
Balance

The article primarily focuses on the perspective that celestial events have historically been seen as omens, without delving deeply into alternative interpretations or the scientific understanding of these phenomena. While it acknowledges the superstitious views of the past, it does not thoroughly explore the scientific advancements that have demystified these events. The piece could have benefitted from more balanced coverage by including expert opinions from astronomers or historians to provide a broader range of perspectives. The emphasis on historical superstition may overshadow the scientific explanations that are equally important for a comprehensive understanding.

7
Clarity

The article is generally clear in its language and structure, presenting information in a straightforward manner. It effectively communicates the idea that celestial events have been historically interpreted as omens while noting that such interpretations are not scientifically valid. However, the blending of historical and scientific narratives might confuse some readers about the distinction between fact and folklore. More explicit differentiation between historical interpretations and current scientific understanding would enhance clarity. The tone is neutral, which helps maintain objectivity, but a clearer separation of fact from myth would improve comprehension.

5
Source quality

The article does not explicitly cite sources or experts, which limits the assessment of its source quality. It relies on general knowledge of astronomical events and historical interpretations, but the lack of direct attribution to credible sources or experts in astronomy or history weakens its reliability. Including quotes from astronomers or references to historical texts would enhance the authority of the claims made. The absence of specific sources raises questions about the depth of research and the credibility of the information presented.

5
Transparency

The article lacks transparency in terms of its sources and methodology. It does not explain how the information was gathered or provide any references to support the claims made about the celestial events and their historical interpretations. This lack of transparency makes it difficult for readers to assess the reliability of the information. While the article does provide a general overview of the events, more detailed explanations or links to scientific data would improve its transparency and help readers understand the basis for the claims.

Sources

  1. https://earthsky.org/tonight/planetary-alignment-january-25-2025/
  2. https://beamstart.com/news/asteroid-and-planetary-alignment-arent-17414322438