April 12th in Russia is the anniversary of man’s first flight into space. In 1961, Soviet cosmonaut, Yuri Gagarin completed an orbit of Earth in a Vostok spacecraft.

“The sky is very dark; the Earth is bluish. Everything is seen very clearly”

The lights of Moscow and the Aurora

Image Credit: ISS Expedition 30, NASA

Space enthusiasts celebrate the day with a number of worldwide events – physical and virtual. At least 200 events in over 50 countries spanning 7 continents. It’s a big party!

12th April is also the anniversary of Space Shuttle Columbia’s inaugural flight, also the first orbital flight of NASA’s Space Shuttle programme.

 Image Credit: Wikipedia.org

 

In 1912 the RMS Titanic made its tragic voyage into history.

In 1775, Paul Revere, William Dawes and Samuel Prescott began their “midnight ride” from Boston to Lexington, warning “The Regulars are coming out.”

1984 saw Australia adopt “Advance Australia Fair” as their national anthem.

This picture is the oldest known colour representation of sundogs. Hailing from 1535, it depicts Stockholm, Sweden.

Vädersolstavlan (Swedish for “The Sun Dog Painting”)

Image Credit: Widipedia.org

A real sundog

Credit and Copyright:  Jim Hoida

 

A sundog is a reflection of sunlight from specifically orientated and shaped ice crystals.

 

 

 

 

 

 

April 22 celebrates Earth Day – or as the United Nations designate it: International Mother Earth Day. A day to appreciate and spread awareness of the Earth’s natural environment.

And of course, ANZAC Day, April 25, a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand to honour the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. It is also International Guide Dog day.