I’m penning this from the gorgeous southwest coast of Türkiye, gazing up on the night time 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 below these crystal-clear skies with out ever feeling chilly. It’s such a singular expertise—extremely really useful for fellow stargazers!
Now, let’s see what October’s night time sky has to supply. Spoiler: it’s going to be epic! We’ve obtained the largest Supermoon of the 12 months, meteor showers, and even a comet that we’d spot with the bare eye!
First off, for those who missed final month’s Supermoon, don’t fear—this month’s goes to be even higher! In September, the total Moon was about 223,000 miles from Earth, which is significantly nearer than the typical (239,000 miles), making it a Supermoon. However October’s full Moon (on the 17th) shall 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 high of that, we’ve obtained 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 potential, and watch the present! Don’t overlook 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 turn 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 would possibly catch it with the bare eye, however for those who’ve obtained 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 gentle up the sky simply after sundown, with Jupiter becoming a member of a number of hours later, and Mars making its look after midnight. What a tremendous month for stargazing!
Picture Credit score: Stellarium/Kerem Cubuk
And hey, for those who’re into stargazing, be part of us on the planetarium on the 4th of October or 1st of November for a enjoyable night time below the celebs, house chat, and the possibility to ask our consultants all of your burning questions!
