I’m penning this from the attractive southwest coast of Türkiye, gazing up on the evening sky. It’s the twenty sixth of September, 9 PM, and the temperature is an ideal 24°C. From right here, Polaris sits about 18 levels decrease on the northern horizon than it does in Northern Eire, so all of the constellations have shifted. You’ll be able to stargaze for hours beneath these crystal-clear skies with out ever feeling chilly. It’s such a singular expertise—extremely really helpful for fellow stargazers!
Now, let’s see what October’s evening sky has to supply. Spoiler: it’s going to be epic! We’ve bought the largest Supermoon of the yr, meteor showers, and even a comet that we would spot with the bare eye!
First off, in the event you missed final month’s Supermoon, don’t fear—this month’s goes to be even higher! In September, the complete Moon was about 223,000 miles from Earth, which is significantly nearer than the common (239,000 miles), making it a Supermoon. However October’s full Moon (on the 17th) will probably be even nearer, making it the closest Supermoon of 2024! This implies it may seem as much as 30% brighter and 15% larger than a Micro Moon (a full Moon at its farthest from Earth). You gained’t wish to miss it!
On prime of that, we’ve bought two meteor showers peaking in October. The Draconids on the 8th and the Orionids on the 21st. You gained’t want any particular tools for these—simply discover a darkish spot, get cozy, lay down if attainable, and watch the present! Don’t neglect to make a want for each capturing star!
There’s additionally a comet making its means throughout the sky this month—C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan–ATLAS). It’s predicted to shine with a magnitude of -4, which implies it may change into the brightest object within the sky after the Solar and Moon! Mark your calendars for the 12th or 13th of October and look in the direction of the western horizon simply after sundown. You may catch it with the bare eye, however in the event you’ve bought binoculars, a telescope, or a digicam with lengthy publicity, you’re in for some unforgettable views.
Picture Credit score: Stellarium/Kerem Cubuk
Saturn, Jupiter, and Mars are additionally placing on a present this month! Saturn will mild up the sky simply after sundown, with Jupiter becoming a member of just a few hours later, and Mars making its look after midnight. What a tremendous month for stargazing!
Picture Credit score: Stellarium/Kerem Cubuk
And hey, in the event you’re into stargazing, be part of us on the planetarium on the 4th of October or 1st of November for a enjoyable evening beneath the celebrities, area chat, and the prospect to ask our consultants all of your burning questions!
