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Weather and Astronomical History in 2025:
Toronto Snowstorms - Thursday, January 2, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
A series of blizzards whallopped Toronto with nearly a metre of snow, starting on this day in 1999. Mayor Mel Lastman famously called out the Army to assist, as people ran out of places to put all of the snow.
Perihelion - Friday, January 3, 2025 @ 19:28 EST
Earth is closest to the Sun in its slightly-elliptical orbit.
Great Ice Storm of 1998 - Saturday, January 4, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
On this day, in 1998, a days-long period of freezing rain hit Eastern Ontario, southern Quebec, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Power lines were torn down, transmission and radio towers toppled. In response, Canada saw its largest military deployment since the Korean War, and a massive reconstruction effort was launched to rebuild the grid. Many grateful Ontarians will remember the convoy of Con Edison vehicles from Michigan, coming to help. In the end, up to 5% of the forest cover was lost in the storm, and there were billions of dollars in damage.
Space Shuttle Challenger lost this day - Sunday, January 26, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
The anniversary of the destruction of Space Shuttle Challenger and her seven-member crew, in 1986 (39 years ago). The loss of the orbiter and seven astronauts shortly after launch rocked NASA to the core and caused a serious shift in thinking. The cause was a gasket in the solid-rocket booster, rendered inflexible because of the unusual cold at the launchpad that morning. A gap in the gasket led to flames cutting into the shuttle's external fuel tank; the explosive force was considered equal to that of a small atomic bomb. This accident was more-widely blamed on a complacent culture at NASA.
Apollo 204 lost this day - Monday, January 27, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
On this day, in 1967, a fire during a launchpad test killed the three astronauts of Apollo 1 (officially designated Apollo 204). The accident led to changes in the materials used in Apollo spacecraft and a substantial redesign of the main hatch. An official enquiry concluded that the fire was caused by frayed electrical insulation, coupled with the all-oxygen atmosphere in the Command Module. It served as a wake-up call to NASA and was largely blamed on the so-called "Go Fever" culture at the agency at that time.
Comet Hyakutake discovered - Friday, January 31, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
On this day in 1996, Comet Hyakutake was discovered, by Yuji Hyakutake. During its brief visit, it put on a first-class show, spreading its tail clear across the northern sky. It has become known as the Great Comet of 1996.
Space Shuttle Columbia lost this day - Saturday, February 1, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
The anniversary of the destruction of the Space Shuttle Columbia, which was lost this day along with her seven-member crew, in 2003. The orbiter was lost on re-entry, when hot gases crept into the wing thanks to smashed RCC tiles; the tiles had been damaged at launch, when ice from the insulated fuel tank detached and struck the shuttle. This led to new examination procedures when arriving at the ISS, and severe destination restrictions on all remaining shuttle flights. On a wider note, it largely informed the design of the snuttle's successor, the Space Launch System (SLS), which places the spacecraft back on top of the launch stack, where it is safe from this sort of event.
S-s-s-snag - Monday, February 3, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
An all-time Canadian low-temperature record was set on this date in 1947, in Snag, Yukon, as the mercury plummeted to -63.0° C.
White Juan - Monday, February 17, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
On this day in 2004, a nor'easter formed in the Atlantic Ocean, going on to strike the Maritimes with 50 to 100 centimetres of snow.
SN 1987 (Supernova) - Sunday, February 23, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
SN 1987A was discovered by Ian Shelton--a Canadian--and Oscar Duhaide, at the Las Campanas Observatory, in Chile, now 38 years ago. Continuous telescopic observations ever since have revaled an evolving, growing supernova remnant. The supernova was located within the Large Magellanic Cloud, which neighbours our own Milky Way. The supernova was the first one visible to the unaided eye in several hundred years.
"Storm of the Century" - Monday, March 3, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
On this day in 1971, a massive blizzard hit eastern Canada. 40 to 80 centimetres of snow feel, whipped by winds of up to 110km /h. The storm caused 30 deaths.
March 1989 Geomagnetic Storm - Thursday, March 13, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
A stunning auroral display greeted onlookers on this day in 1998, when the sky danced with the Northern Lights as far south as Texas.
Total Lunar Eclipse - Thursday, March 13, 2025 @ 23:07 EDT
A total lunar eclipse will be visible from North America, Western Europe and Africa, Eastern Asia and Australia, and the polar regions.
Vernal (Spring) Equinox - Wednesday, March 19, 2025 @ 21:01 EDT
Winter ends; Spring begins (N. Hemisphere). Summer ends; Autumn begins (S. Hemisphere). Day and night are equal worldwide.
Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 Discovered - Monday, March 24, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1993, Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 was discovered jointly by Eugene and Carolyn Shoemaker, and David Levy, a Canadian. The comet broke apart in Jupiter's gravity and impacted the planet beginning in July 1994.
Partial Solar Eclipse - Saturday, March 29, 2025 @ 04:50 EDT
A Partial eclipse of the sun will be visible in Canada, the extrenem eastern United States, northwestern Europe and Africa, and the North polar region.
Yuri Gagarin in Orbit - Saturday, April 12, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1961, Soviet Cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin became the first human to orbit the earth, aboard Vostok 1. Following the flight, he was made a Hero of the Soviet Union. From that point on a national treasure, he was forbidden further space flights. He later died, in 1968, in a plane crash. Since the year 2000, an annual event, Yuri's Night, celebrates milestones in space exploration. This date was declared the International Day of Human Space Flight by the UN.
First Space Shuttle Launch - Saturday, April 12, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1981, Space Shuttle Columbia was launched from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on an orbital flight commanded by John Young, a Project Apollo veteran, and Bob Crippen. Columbia went on to make many more flights before breaking up during re-entry in 2003.
HST Launched - Thursday, April 24, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day 35 years ago (1990), the Hubble Space Telescope was launched. The first large space telescope, the Hubble initially had severe focusing problems; but a later servicing mission repaired Hubble's focus with a special package of corrective lenses. The Hubble went on to make over 30 years of discoveries as the premiere optical space telescope, before being supplanted by the James Webb Space Telescope, but remains in service, with investigations into extending its lifespan by up to 20 years.
Candian Derecho of 2022 - Wednesday, May 21, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this date, in 2022, a derecho hit southern Ontario and Quebec, with winds up to 190 km/h and a number of tornadoes. Damage was widespread, with many trees down and the power grid severely damaged. The Author experienced this storm, and classed it alongside Post-Tropical Storm Blanche, in 1975.
Barrie Tornado - Saturday, May 31, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
Today marks 40 years since a major tornado ripped through the city of Barrie, Ontario, in 1985, causing 8 deaths and $150-million in damage.
Valentina Tereshkova Orbits the Earth - Friday, June 6, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1963--62 years ago--Soviet Cosmonaut Valentina Tereshkova became the first woman into space, and in orbit, aboard Vostok 6. No other woman flew into space until 1982.
Summer Solstice - Friday, June 20, 2025 @ 02:42 EDT
Spring ends; Summer begins (N. Hemisphere). Autumn ends; Winter begins (S. Hemisphere). Longest day of the year (N. Hemisphere). Shortest Day of the year (S. Hemisphere)
Lytton: Hotter than Hell - Sunday, June 29, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 2021, the all-time Candian high-temperature record--49.6° celsius--was recorded in the town of Lytton, British Columbia, in the midst of a "heat dome" event. Very literally the very next day, the town was razed in a forest fire.
Lytton: Gone to Hell - Monday, June 30, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 2021, literally the day after setting an all-time Canadian high-temperature record, the town of Lytton was wiped out in a forest fire. In the midst of a "heat dome" event, during a parched summer, the forests of BC were tinder-dry.
Aphelion - Thursday, July 3, 2025 @ 07:54 EDT
Earth is farthest from the Sun in its slightly-elliptical orbit.
Impact Day - Wednesday, July 16, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1994, the first fragment of Comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 impacted with the planet Jupiter, leaving atmospheric scars which flowed together into bands and persisted for months.
Apollo 11 Landed - Saturday, July 19, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1969, the Apollo 11 Moon mission landed on its target while the world held its breath. Two American men--Neil Armstrong, and Edwin "Buzz" Aldrin--walked on the Moon early the next day.
Saugenay Floods - Saturday, July 19, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1996, the first of several floods hit the Saugenay region of Quebec. Upwards of 15,000 people were evacuated, and some 500 homes lost.
Comet Hale-Bopp discovered - Wednesday, July 23, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1995, Comet Hale-Bopp was discovered independently by Alan Hale and Thomas Bopp. The comet proceeded to put on a protracted show, being the brightest in decades.
Hurricane Blanche - Monday, July 28, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
A powerful post-tropical storm when it made landfall in Nova Scotia in 1975, this system dropped heavy rainfall over much of the province, accompanied by high winds and considerable thunder. The Author experienced this storm first-hand, on Sober Island, NS.
Edmonton Tornado - Thursday, July 31, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1987, a large tornado ripped through Edmonton, killing 27 and causing a third of a billion dollars in damage.
Total Lunar Eclipse - Sunday, September 7, 2025 @ 11:28 EDT
A total lunar eclipse will be visible from Asia, Africa, Europe, Australia, and the polar regions.
"Hurroncane" - Thursday, September 11, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1996 (29 years ago), a subtropical cyclone formed in Lake Huron, reaching Tropical Storm intensity. It was the only recorded instance of a warm-core cyclone forming in the Great Lakes region.
Hurricane Fiona - Sunday, September 14, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 2022, Hurricane Fiona formed, going on to strike Nova Scotia, Quebec, and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Hurricane Lee - Wednesday, September 17, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 2023, Hurricane Lee formed, going on to strike Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island.
Dunrobin Tornado - Sunday, September 21, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 2018, a tornado touched down in Dunrobin, Ontario, just outside Ottawa. Other tornadoes in the region caused a major power outage, including through parts of the downtown area.
Partial Solar Eclipse - Sunday, September 21, 2025 @ 13:29 EDT
A partial solar eclipse will be visible from New Zealand and the South polar region.
Autumnal (Fall) Equinox - Monday, September 22, 2025 @ 10:19 EDT
Summer ends; Autumn begins (N. Hemisphere). Winter ends; Spring begins (S. Hemisphere). Day and night are equal worldwide.
Hurricane Fiona - Wednesday, September 24, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 2022, Hurricane Fiona made landfall in Nova Scotia, causing extensive damage throughout the Maritimes. Damages were close to a billion dollars.
Alouette I launched. - Monday, September 29, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
Canada's first space satellite, Alouette 1, was launched in 1962 and remains in orbit, though no longer functional.
Hurricane Juan - Monday, September 29, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 2003, hurricane Juan made landfall in Nova Scotia, as a Category-Two storm. The hurricane's arrival coincided with a high tide, and the resultant storm surge caused massive damage and significant coastal erosion.
Sputnik 1 Launched - Saturday, October 4, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1957, the Soviet Union launched the first artificial satellite, Sputnik 1, into orbit. The launch threw a scare into the West and completely overshadowed the official rollout of the Avro Arrow interceptor aircraft.
Kepler's Supernova - Wednesday, October 8, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1604, the famed astronmer Johannes Kepler spied a supernova in Ophiuchus. The second in about 34 years (see Tycho's Supernova, Nov. 15), and designated SN 1604, this detonation of a distant star was bright enough to be visible during the day. Thus far, it has been the last naked-eye supernova in the Milky Way. Its remnant is the subject of ongoing study.
Hurricane Hazel - Thursday, October 16, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
This powerful post-tropical storm moved into Ontario on this day in 1954 (71 years ago), dropping heavy rainfall and causing significant damage to the waterfront, in addition to flooding.
West Coast Weather Bomb - Friday, November 14, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
A surprise weather bomb delivered hurricane-force winds to a large area of the Pacific Northwest, including coastal British Columbia, on this day in 1981. The author was trapped on a campground for two days, as a result of this storm, due to a large number of felled trees blocking the road.
Tycho's Supernova - Saturday, November 15, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
In mid-November 1572, Tycho Brahe spied a supernova in Cassiopeia, now designated SN1572. More than 450 years later, its remnant, 3C 10 (also known as "Tycho's Supernova Remnant, G120.7+2.1, or Cepheus X-1), is easily spotted in mid-sized amateur telescopes and is the subject of intense study.
ISS Launched - Thursday, November 20, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
On this day in 1998, the first module of the International Space Station was launched. The station, involving astronauts from North America, Europe, Japan, and other countries, continues to operate, in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), 27 years later.
Winter Solstice - Sunday, December 21, 2025 @ 00:03 EST
Autumn ends; Winter begins (N. Hemisphere). Spring ends; Summer begins (S. Hemisphere). Shortest day of the year (N. Hemisphere). Longest day of the year (S. Hemisphere)
Xmas Day Ice Storm - Thursday, December 25, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
The Ottawa area was hit by a massive ice storm on this day in 1986.
Launch of the JWST - Thursday, December 25, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
On Xmas Day in 2021, the James Webb Space Telescope was launched aboard an ArianeSpace Ariane 5 launch vehicle. Orbiting Earth-Sun Lagrange Point L2, and sporting vastly superior optics and electronics to Hubble's, the JWST has made revolutionary discoveries, including the existence of well-formed galaxies shortly after the Big Bang.
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Military History in 2025:
Operation Hailstone - Monday, February 17, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
The US Fleet launched a surprise attack on the Japanese naval stronghold at Truk Lagoon (today known as Chuuk Lagoon), on this day in 1944 (81 years ago). The Americans suffered only token losses, while the Japanese saw 4,500+ deaths, 40+ vessels sunk, and 250+ aircraft destroyed.
First Flight of the Arrow - Tuesday, March 25, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1958, the all-Canadian Avro Arrow made its first flight. A groundbreaking interceptor plane, the Arrow was eventually cancelled by the Diefenbaker government, in favour of a cruise-missile system.
Falklands War Begins - Wednesday, April 2, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1982, the Falklands War began, pitting Great Britain against Argentina for control of the Islands. Argentina surrendered 74 days later.
Battle of Vimy Ridge - Wednesday, April 9, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1917, during World War I, the Battle of Vimy Ridge began, with four Canadian divisions storming the lines versus three German divisions. The Canadians were ultimately victorious, and a beautiful memorial now decorates the site.
Second Battle of Ypres - Tuesday, April 22, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
In this World War I battle, begun on this day in 1915, Canadians were in the forefront. Over the course of the battle, which lasted until May 25, Canadians were subject to violent bombardment and poison-gas attacks, but held the line and eventually emerged victorious.
Holland Liberated - Wednesday, May 7, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1945, Canada accepted the surrender of German forces in the Netherlands, after a months-long campaign to dislodge them. This effort sparked a close and enduring friendship between the two countries.
V-E Day - Thursday, May 8, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
Victory-in-Europe Day celebrates the 1945 surrender by Nazi Germany to the Allied Forces. This had followed a vicious battle for the city of Berlin, and came little more than a week after Adolph Hitler had taken his own life.
D-Day - Friday, June 6, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this date in 1944, Allied troops landed on the beaches of Normandy, in Operation Overlord; the "D-Day" landings. American, British and Canadian troops landed on five beaches, establishing a foothold on the continent and fighting their way inland. Canadian troops reached the furthest inland on that day. Artificial harbours were soon constructed, and fuel pipelines laid on the sea bottom from England to France. Hundreds of thousands of soldiers arrived in Europe in this way. The attack was the beginning of the end for Germany, with the Russians closing in from the east, and now the Allies growing in strength, liberating France and moving up the Italian Peninsula.
End of Falklands War - Saturday, June 14, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1982, the Falklands War ended with the surrender of Argentinian forces on the Islands.
Shelling of Estevan Lighthouse - Friday, June 20, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1942, 83 years ago, Japanese submarine I-26 shelled the lighthouse at Estevan Point, on Vancouver Island. It was the only instance of the bombardment of Canada during the war.
Operation Barbarossa - Sunday, June 22, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1941 (84 years ago), Nazi Germany began its invasion of the Soviet Union. Despite initial gains, the invasion eventually bogged down and ultimately was repulsed by the Soviets, who captured Berlin in 1945.
Battle of the Somme - Tuesday, July 1, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
From this day in 1916, to November 18, Canadians were engaged in the Battle of the Somme. The battle helped to cement their reputation as hardened, first-class troops who gave their all in the quest for victory.
Battle of Beaument-Hamel - Tuesday, July 1, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
Canada day has a different meaning for Newfoundlanders, who observe the anniversary of this battle, which occurred during the opening of the Battle of the Somme, in 1916. The Newfoundland Regiment suffered heavy losses that day; but they, like their Canadian brothers, emerged from this baptism of fire with a hard-earned reputation as front-line troops. After the war, a stunning monument was erected at the site, featuring a bronze caribou on a large stone pedestal.
HMCS Bonvaventure decommissioned - Thursday, July 3, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1970, HMCS Bonaventure was decomissioned after 13 years' service. This vessel was Canada's third aircraft carrier, after Warrior and Magnificent. Some 215 metres long and 34 wide, she was a small (by modern standards) ship of her type, but she was able to maintain a constant aerial screen during operations. Originally laid down during WWII, as the British ship HMS Powerful, she was mothballed after the war; she was acquired by the Canadian government in 1952 and commissioned in January of 1957. The Author nostalgically remembers car rides past her, in the Halifax dockyard, in the late Nineteen-Sixties.
World War I Begins - Monday, July 28, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
The global conflagration popularly called the "Great War" during the period, was the first war involving major powers worldwide. On this day, in 1914, a Serbian Nationalist assassinated Archuduke Franz Ferdinand, the heir to the Austro-Hungarian crown. Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia the same day, and within weeks most of the global powers were pulled in, eventually including the United States. Over 17-million (17,000,000) people lost their lives in the conflict, including some 65,000 Canadians. The war ended in 1918, now 111 years ago.
Bombing of Hiroshima - Wednesday, August 6, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1945, the United States detonated an atomic bomb over the Japanese city of Hiroshima. The bomb, nicknamed "Little Boy," killed up to an estimated 125,000 people.
Canada's Hundred Days - Friday, August 8, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
In the final months of World War I, the period known as Canada's Hundred Days began. Innovations in tactics, and the combined and coordinated use of all available military resources, Allied troops, of which the Canadians were a significant part, drove the Germans out of France and through Belgium, ending the war. Canadian General Currie, and Australian General Monash, were especially prominent during this period.
Bombing of Nagasaki - Saturday, August 9, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1945, the United States detonated an atomic bomb over the Japanese city of Nagasaki. The plutonium-based bomb, nicknamed "Fat Man," fell off-target but still managed to kill up to 80,000 people. It precipitated the end of World War II.
V-J Day - Thursday, August 14, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
Victory-in-Japan Day celebrates Japan's 1945 announcement that they would accept the Potsdam Declaration and surrender unconditionally. Formal surrender documents were signed September 2.
Dieppe Raid - Tuesday, August 19, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1942, Operation Jubilee was launched against the French port town of Dieppe. Miscues and bungled communications led to the decimation of the mostly-Canadian invasion force, with over 3,300 casualties. In September 1944, Canadian soldiers returned to liberate Dieppe.
World War II began - Monday, September 1, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
The global conflagration known as World War II began on this date, in 1939. It began with the German invasion of Poland, and ended six years later with the defeat of Germany and the nuclear bombing of Japan. Canada played a signficant role in the war, first protecting trans-Atlantic shipping, then by contributing great numbers of aircraft and crew, and finally by fielding a large army in Europe, playing a major role in the liberation of the Netherlands.
World War II ended - Tuesday, September 2, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
World War II officially ended on this day in 1945, with the signing of formal surrender documents by the Japanese, aboard the US battleship Missouri, in Tokyo Bay. Japan's final surrender was precipitated by the nuclear bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki a few weeks earlier.
Allied Invasion of Italy - Wednesday, September 3, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1943, allied forces invaded southern Italy and began fighting their way north.
Pearl Harbour - Sunday, December 7, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
On this day in 1941, Japan achieved complete surprise in its attack on Pearl Harbour, sinking most of the US Pacific Fleet stationed at Hawaii. Fortunately, the four American aircraft carriers were out to sea on that Sunday morning, and survived to wreak havoc on the Japanese in later battles. The United States declared war the following day, eventually winning the Pacific War in 1945.
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Civil History in 2025:
New Year's Day - Wednesday, January 1, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
Happy New Year! The year 2025 begins.
Stephen Hawking born - Wednesday, January 8, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
On this day in 1942 (83 years ago), legendary British physicist Stephen Hawking was born in Oxford, UK. His work on such subjects as time, cosmology and black holes helped to revolutionize the way we look at the Universe. Diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease), he spent the last four decades of his life confined to a wheelchair, eventually communicating with a synthesized voice.
London Underground - Friday, January 10, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
On this day in 1863, London's Underground was launched, with a line initially between Paddington and Farrington.
Guatemala Earthquake - Tuesday, February 4, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
On this day in 1976, 49 years ago, a massive earthquake struck Guatemala.
Valentine's Day - Friday, February 14, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
Named after St. Valentine, a Third-Century Irish priest.
National Flag of Canada Day - Saturday, February 15, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
Today is National Flag of Canada Day. celebrating 60 years since the first hosting of the ubiquitous Maple Leaf, in 1965.
Albert Einstein Born - Tuesday, March 4, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
On this day in 1879, Albert Einstein was born. He gave birth to many modern physics concepts, including two special theories of Relativity, a better understanding of piezoelectric effects, and more. He was particularly famous for his gendankenexperimenten (thought experiments). Einstein died in 1955.
Time Change in most of North America: clocks go forward one hour. - Sunday, March 9, 2025 @ 02:00 EST
Eastern Standard Time ends at 02:00 EST. Eastern Daylight Time begins at 03:00 EDT
Stephen Hawking Dies - Friday, March 14, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 2018, legendary British Physicist Stephen Hawking died.
Eruption of Eyjafjallajokull - Thursday, March 20, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 2010, the Icelandic volcano Eyjafjallajokull began a series of eruptions which were highly disruptive to air travel within western Europe. The eruptions continued until June 23.
Alaska Earthquake - Thursday, March 27, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1964 (61 years ago), a major earthquake in Alaska gave rise to a tsunami which caused damage to towns and cities up and down the west coast of North America, including the Canadian city of Port Alberni, British Columbia.
Newfoundland and Labrador Joins Confederation - Monday, March 31, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
Today marks 76 years since Newfoundland and Labrador joined the Canadian Confederation in 1949.
Nunavut Created - Tuesday, April 1, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
Today marks 26 years since Nunavut separated from the Northwest Territories, in 1999.
Trans-Canada Air Lines Formed - Thursday, April 10, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day, back in 1937 (now 88 years ago), Trans-Canada Air Lines was formed. It eventually went on to be renamed "Air Canada" in 1965, and to swallow Canadian Airlines International (formerly Canada Pacific Airlines, or CP Air), which itself had absorbed WardAir a few years before (1989) in 2001.
1906 San Francisco Earthquake - Friday, April 18, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
Northern California experienced a massive (magnitude 7.9) earthquake, on this day in 1906, which ruptured gas lines, causing widespread fires.
Earth Day - Tuesday, April 22, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
The first Earth Day was celebrated back in 1970.
Chernobyl Disaster - Saturday, April 26, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1986, the No. 4 reactor of the Chernobyle Nuclear Power Plant exploded, releasing radiation in into the environment. A years-long effort to stabilize the reactor followed, and today it is enclosed in a giant metal 'sarcophagus'. It has repeatedly come into danger during the Russo-Ukraine war.
Manitoba and NWT Join Confederation - Monday, May 12, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
Today marks 155 years since Manitoba and the North West Territories joined the Canadian Confederation in 1870.
Eruption of Mt. St. Helens - Sunday, May 18, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1980 (now 45 years ago), Mount Saint Helens, a beautiful, symmetrical stratovolcano cone often referred to as "the Fuji of the Northwest," erupted explosively after months of signs that it was waking up. The eruption was triggered by a huge landslide, and the mountain blew away its summit and the southern quadrant of its cone. In many areas, for the next couple of days, it was pitch-black from the clouds of volcanic dust. Huge lahars washed down many rivers, and the showpiece of the area, Spirit Lake, was drowned in boiling debris. The eruption was extensively covered by international media. Subsequent smaller eruptions carried ash up into Canada. The sound of the eruption was heard up to 320 kilometres away, including by the Author, as he delivered papers on southern Vancouver Island.
Victoria Day - Monday, May 19, 2025 @ 00:00 EDT
Canada takes a holiday on this date, in celebration of the life and accomplishments of Her Majesty, Queen Victoria (1819-05-24 - 1901.01.22).
Death of Stan Rogers - Monday, June 2, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1983, Canadian folk-music star Stan Rogers lost his life aboard Air Canada Flight 797, in an aircraft fire. He was 33.
CN Created - Friday, June 6, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
Today marks 106 years since the creation of the Canadian National Railway, today known simply as CN, in 1919. It is Canada's largest railway, including significant trackage in the United States.
Yukon Joins Confederation - Friday, June 13, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
Today marks 127 years since Yukon joined the Canadian Confederation in 1898.
Eruption of Mt. Pinatubo - Sunday, June 15, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
This Philippine volcano exploded on this date in 1991. The eruption forced ash high into the atmosphere, causing enhanced sunsets and a brief period of global cooling.
St. Lawrence Seaway Opens - Thursday, June 26, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1959, the St. Lawrence Seaway, considered one of the engineering marvels of the Twentieth Century, was officially opened by Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. The system consists of 13 locks and is jointly managed by Canada and the United States.
Canada Day - Tuesday, July 1, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
Happy birthday to Canada, now 158 years old!
PEI Joins Confederation - Tuesday, July 1, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
Today marks 152 years since Prince Edward Island joined the Canadian Confederation in 1873.
US Independence Day - Friday, July 4, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
Not to be confused with the hokey mid-90's movie.
BC Forest Fires - Monday, July 7, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
A months-long period of massive forest fires began on this day in 2017. A State of Emergency held for 70 days.
British Columbia Joins Confederation - Sunday, July 20, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
Today marks 154 years since British Columbia joined the Canadian Confederation in 1871.
Amelia Earhart born - Thursday, July 24, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day in 1897 (128 years ago), pilot Amelia Earhart was born, in Atchison, Kansas. A trailblazer for later generations of female pilots, she eventually lost her life after crashing on or near Howland Island, in the Pacific Ocean, on one of the later (and most-dangerous) legs of a round-the-world expedition. There is plenty of evidence that she survived the crash; shortwave radio calls, for example, which were triangulated to Howland. An ocean-exploration team recently announced tentative indications that the plane had been found, in approximately 5,000m of water.
Labour Day - Sunday, August 31, 2025 @ 00:00 EDT
Canada and other countries take this day off in recognition of the accomplishments of workers.
Alberta and Saskatchewan Join Confederation - Monday, September 1, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
Today marks 120 years since Alberta and Saskatchewan joined the Canadian Confederation in 1905.
Loma Prieta Earthquake - Friday, October 17, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
A major earthquake occurred just before the scheduled start of a World Series game, on this day in 1989. Among the many significant consequences of the quake were the heavy damage to the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, and the collapse of the double-deck Cypress Street Viaduct.
Black Monday - Sunday, October 19, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
In 1987, on this day, a stock-market crash wiped out 22.6 percent of the Dow Jones Industrial Average, its biggest one-day drop ever, after an unprecedented period of growth.
Black Thursday - Friday, October 24, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
Signalling the beginning of the Great Depression, the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped by 11 percent on this day in 1929, the beginning of many months of slides. Stock prices bottomed out in 1932. The Great Depression continued until the outbreak of war in 1939.
Hallowe'en - Friday, October 31, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
This observance, originally called "All Hallows' Eve", and immediately preceding All Saints' Day, is a mostly-fun-filled celebration of the dead; a night when jack-o'-lanterns decorate doorsteps, and candies are handed out to canvassing children.
Time Change in most of North America: clocks go back one hour. - Sunday, November 2, 2025 @ 02:00 EST
Eastern Daylight Time ends at 02:00 EDT. Eastern Standard Time begins at 01:00 EST.
Madame Curie Born - Friday, November 7, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
On this day in 1867, (158 years ago), Marie Curie was born in Warsaw, Poland. Her work in isolating radium made scientists aware of radioactivity.
The Last Spike - Friday, November 7, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
The ceremonial last spike was driven at Craigellachie, British Columbia, marking the completion of Canada's first coast-to-coast railway, the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR), on this day in 1885.
Wreck of the Edmund Fitzerald - Monday, November 10, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
The ship made famous in the Gordon Lightfoot song sank in heavy seas on Lake Superior, on this day in 1975, 50 years ago. Speculation continues as to the actual cause of the sinking, the wreck having been located four days later. Her entire crew of 29 was lost.
Remembrance Day - Tuesday, November 11, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
Today is the day we wear a poppy, and maintain one minute of silence at 11am, in honour of the soldiers who have fought for our freedom, many of them dying in foreign lands. It is now 107 years after the "Great War," as World War I was often known, the centennial having come in 2018.
Edwin Hubble Born - Thursday, November 20, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
On this day in 1889 (136 years ago), astronomer Edwin Hubble was born. Later in life, with the help of the Hale Telescope, he determined that the universe was expanding.
Saugenay Earthquake - Tuesday, November 25, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
A magnitude-5.9 earthquake hit the Saugenay region of Quebec, on this day in 1988. The earthquake--eastern North America's largest in 53 years--was felt over a wide area, including here in Ottawa.
Happy Festivus! - Tuesday, December 23, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
Festivus, the Festival for, as the saying goes, the rest of us.
Sir Isaac Newton Born - Thursday, December 25, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
On this day in 1642, Sir Isaac Newton was born. He went on to give birth to modern physics and new branches of mathematics.
Indian Ocean Earthquake and Tsunami - Friday, December 26, 2025 @ 00:00 EST
A megathrust earthquake off Sumatra, Indonesia, caused a massive tsunami throughout the Indian Ocean, on this day in 2004. In Indonesia, the hardest-hit by the giant ocean waves, up to 225,000 people died.
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Personal and CTO History in 2025:
CTO Established - Monday, June 30, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
The Centretown Observatory was established on this day in 1990 (35 years ago). Back then, the surrounding trees were much shorter, and the radio bands much quieter. *sigh*. The first iteration of our online weather system was launched in 2009, and the current system first became operational 24/7 in early 2012.
Happy Birthday Bill - Sunday, October 19, 2025 @ 01:00 EDT
On this day, in 1964, Bill Demmery, the author of the MC-HOME suite, was born. This year, he turns 61.
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The Moon in 2025:
First Quarter - Mon, January 6,
2025 @ 08:56 EST
A waxing half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun sets.
Full Moon - Mon, January 13,
2025 @ 07:26 EST
The Moon is most-opposite the Sun in the sky, rising as the sun sets.
Last Quarter - Tue, January 21,
2025 @ 00:30 EST
A waning half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun rises.
New Moon - Tue, January 28,
2025 @ 21:35 EST
The Moon is nearest the Sun in the sky and cannot be seen from the ground.
First Quarter - Tue, February 4,
2025 @ 17:02 EST
A waxing half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun sets.
Full Moon - Tue, February 11,
2025 @ 22:53 EST
The Moon is most-opposite the Sun in the sky, rising as the sun sets.
Last Quarter - Thu, February 20,
2025 @ 02:32 EST
A waning half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun rises.
New Moon - Thu, February 27,
2025 @ 09:44 EST
The Moon is nearest the Sun in the sky and cannot be seen from the ground.
First Quarter - Thu, March 6,
2025 @ 01:31 EST
A waxing half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun sets.
Full Moon - Thu, March 13,
2025 @ 17:54 EDT
The Moon is most-opposite the Sun in the sky, rising as the sun sets.
Last Quarter - Fri, March 21,
2025 @ 22:29 EDT
A waning half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun rises.
New Moon - Fri, March 28,
2025 @ 21:57 EDT
The Moon is nearest the Sun in the sky and cannot be seen from the ground.
First Quarter - Fri, April 4,
2025 @ 13:14 EDT
A waxing half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun sets.
Full Moon - Sat, April 12,
2025 @ 11:22 EDT
The Moon is most-opposite the Sun in the sky, rising as the sun sets.
Last Quarter - Sun, April 20,
2025 @ 12:35 EDT
A waning half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun rises.
New Moon - Sun, April 27,
2025 @ 06:31 EDT
The Moon is nearest the Sun in the sky and cannot be seen from the ground.
First Quarter - Sun, May 4,
2025 @ 00:51 EDT
A waxing half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun sets.
Full Moon - Mon, May 12,
2025 @ 04:55 EDT
The Moon is most-opposite the Sun in the sky, rising as the sun sets.
Last Quarter - Mon, May 19,
2025 @ 23:58 EDT
A waning half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun rises.
New Moon - Mon, May 26,
2025 @ 03:02 EDT
The Moon is nearest the Sun in the sky and cannot be seen from the ground.
First Quarter - Mon, June 2,
2025 @ 15:40 EDT
A waxing half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun sets.
Full Moon - Tue, June 10,
2025 @ 19:43 EDT
The Moon is most-opposite the Sun in the sky, rising as the sun sets.
Last Quarter - Wed, June 18,
2025 @ 07:19 EDT
A waning half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun rises.
New Moon - Tue, June 24,
2025 @ 22:31 EDT
The Moon is nearest the Sun in the sky and cannot be seen from the ground.
First Quarter - Wed, July 2,
2025 @ 07:30 EDT
A waxing half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun sets.
Full Moon - Thu, July 10,
2025 @ 08:36 EDT
The Moon is most-opposite the Sun in the sky, rising as the sun sets.
Last Quarter - Thu, July 17,
2025 @ 12:37 EDT
A waning half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun rises.
New Moon - Thu, July 24,
2025 @ 07:11 EDT
The Moon is nearest the Sun in the sky and cannot be seen from the ground.
First Quarter - Fri, August 1,
2025 @ 00:41 EDT
A waxing half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun sets.
Full Moon - Fri, August 8,
2025 @ 19:55 EDT
The Moon is most-opposite the Sun in the sky, rising as the sun sets.
Last Quarter - Fri, August 15,
2025 @ 17:21 EDT
A waning half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun rises.
New Moon - Fri, August 22,
2025 @ 18:06 EDT
The Moon is nearest the Sun in the sky and cannot be seen from the ground.
First Quarter - Sat, August 30,
2025 @ 18:25 EDT
A waxing half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun sets.
Full Moon - Sun, September 7,
2025 @ 06:08 EDT
The Moon is most-opposite the Sun in the sky, rising as the sun sets.
Last Quarter - Sat, September 13,
2025 @ 22:32 EDT
A waning half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun rises.
New Moon - Sun, September 21,
2025 @ 07:54 EDT
The Moon is nearest the Sun in the sky and cannot be seen from the ground.
First Quarter - Mon, September 29,
2025 @ 11:53 EDT
A waxing half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun sets.
Full Moon - Mon, October 6,
2025 @ 15:47 EDT
The Moon is most-opposite the Sun in the sky, rising as the sun sets.
Last Quarter - Mon, October 13,
2025 @ 06:12 EDT
A waning half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun rises.
New Moon - Tue, October 21,
2025 @ 00:25 EDT
The Moon is nearest the Sun in the sky and cannot be seen from the ground.
First Quarter - Wed, October 29,
2025 @ 04:20 EDT
A waxing half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun sets.
Full Moon - Tue, November 4,
2025 @ 22:19 EST
The Moon is most-opposite the Sun in the sky, rising as the sun sets.
Last Quarter - Tue, November 11,
2025 @ 15:28 EST
A waning half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun rises.
New Moon - Wed, November 19,
2025 @ 15:47 EST
The Moon is nearest the Sun in the sky and cannot be seen from the ground.
First Quarter - Thu, November 27,
2025 @ 15:58 EST
A waxing half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun sets.
Full Moon - Thu, December 4,
2025 @ 08:14 EST
The Moon is most-opposite the Sun in the sky, rising as the sun sets.
Last Quarter - Wed, December 10,
2025 @ 22:51 EST
A waning half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun rises.
New Moon - Fri, December 19,
2025 @ 10:43 EST
The Moon is nearest the Sun in the sky and cannot be seen from the ground.
First Quarter - Sat, December 27,
2025 @ 04:09 EST
A waxing half-Moon is near the meridian (halfway across the sky) as the Sun sets.
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