Update 5 June 2010: In less than a year, this article is already out of date.  First, NASA’s STEREO satellites have been supplanted by SDO as the ultimate solar observatory, and it’s gorgeous high resolution images of the Sun currently dominate astronomy image galleries.  Second, the Sun’s unusually long dormant period finally ended – there is now usually plenty for solar observers to see.  And finally, I am no longer observing for ASSA‘s solar section – personal commitments have not … Continue reading →