A Stormy Sun
Every 11 years or so, the Sun throws itself a little party. It starts spewing out even more energy than usual, and dolls itself up with sun spots and solar flares. This is called its "solar maximum" and it will hit in the fall of 2013. Increased solar activity can have all kinds of effects on Earth, including messed up weather, failure of electrical grids, and on the bright side, dazzling Northern lights displays. But don't worry: NASA thinks this year's maximum will be subdued compared to others. Perhaps the Sun just needs to rest up a little more before it throws itself a real rager.