By Heather Durham | September 30, 2023
On September 24, 2023, a remarkable event occurred: part of the asteroid belt made contact with Earth in a controlled and secure manner. The spacecraft known as OSIRIS-REx successfully deposited collected fragments from the near-Earth asteroid Bennu in a capsule, which then parachuted safely to the Utah Test and Training Range in the U.S. Army’s Dugway Proving Grounds. This marked the culmination of a six-year project, during which the capsule re-entered Earth’s atmosphere at a safe distance and landed gently in the Utah desert.
The capsule contained about eight ounces of primitive asteroid material. The recovery process involved careful steps, including visual inspections, temperature measurements, and gas testing, to ensure the capsule was safe for approach. The recovered sample will now be transported to Houston and eventually distributed to researchers worldwide, offering a unique glimpse into the “seeds of life” and shedding light on the early solar system’s formation. This successful mission represents a significant leap in our understanding of asteroids and sets the stage for future asteroid research endeavors, ushering in what NASA has aptly termed “Asteroid Autumn.”
October 1: Our lunar companion, the Moon, embarks on a celestial journey with the giant of our solar system, Jupiter, as they engage in a close approach and conjunction. This cosmic rendezvous promises a spectacular sight, with the radiant Jupiter appearing as a brilliant beacon close to our serene lunar neighbor.
October 3: Continuing our celestial journey, the Moon graces us with yet another captivating display as it approaches the illustrious star cluster, M45, also known as the Pleiades. The Moon’s gentle touch upon these distant stars evokes a sense of wonder, reminding us of the cosmic connections that span the vast expanse of our universe and beyond.
October 6: In the tranquil darkness of October 6th, the skies come alive with the Camelopardalid meteor shower of 2023, casting luminous streaks across the canvas of night. Meanwhile, our Moon gracefully wanes towards its last quarter, its silvery crescent adding an exquisite backdrop to this celestial display.
October 9: On this night, stargazers are treated to the Draconid meteor shower, a celestial spectacle that originates from the fiery remnants of comet dust. These meteors, born of ancient cosmic travelers, streak across the firmament, leaving transient trails of light behind them.
October 10: Prepare for an enchanting conjunction as the Moon and Venus, the “Evening Star,” come together in celestial harmony. Their close approach is a sight to behold, with Venus’ brilliant glow illuminating the lunar landscape. To add to this celestial dance, the Southern Taurid meteor shower graces the heavens, painting arcs of radiance against the inky backdrop of space.
October 11: The night sky continues its artistic expression with the δ-Aurigid meteor shower, a celestial symphony of meteors originating from the radiant constellation Auriga. These passing cosmic travelers bring an extra touch of magic to our October nights.
October 14: Mark your calendars for a momentous event—an annular solar eclipse. The Moon, in its orbital dance with the Sun, creates a dramatic celestial alignment. As the Moon covers the central disk of the Sun, a mesmerizing “ring of fire” surrounds the lunar silhouette. An eclipse of this nature is a rare treat for those fortunate enough to witness it and dependent upon Mother Nature.
October 18: As October progresses, the ε-Geminid meteor shower graces our night sky, offering a stunning celestial spectacle. The radiant stars of Gemini become the background for these meteors, as they streak across the heavens, leaving trails of light behind.
October 19: Venus, the “Morning Star,” reaches its highest altitude in the morning sky, gleaming brilliantly before dawn. This is an ideal opportunity for early risers to witness the beauty of our planetary neighbor.
October 21: The Moon, now at its first quarter, presents a splendid lunar landscape for observers. Its half-illuminated form adding depth and contrast to the night sky, making it an ideal time for lunar exploration.
October 22: Look to the heavens as the Orionid meteor shower graces us with its presence. These meteors, remnants of Halley’s Comet, streak across the sky, emanating from the iconic constellation Orion. Simultaneously, Venus reaches its dichotomy, showcasing a half-lighted phase as it continues its celestial dance.
October 23: Venus reaches its greatest elongation west, a noteworthy moment in its celestial journey. This marks the farthest point from the Sun that Venus reaches in our evening sky, making it a prime target for observation.
October 24: On this night, celestial convergence takes place as the Moon and Saturn draw near in conjunction and close approach. These two celestial objects create a mesmerizing pairing, offering astronomers and skywatchers a celestial treat.
October 25: The Leonis Minorid meteor shower graces our night sky, adding another layer of celestial wonder to our October evenings all the while being visible to the naked eye.
October 30: As we bid farewell to October, the month concludes with a final celestial rendezvous—a close approach of the Moon and M45. This graceful encounter with the Pleiades serves as a celestial parting gift, leaving us in anticipation of the wonders of next month.
So, dear fellow stargazers, prepare yourselves, set your alarm clocks, and venture into the October night to witness these celestial events. The cosmos has a grand performance in store for those who dare to look up and dream among the stars, the universe and beyond.
References:
Cokinos,C. (September 25, 2023). OSIRIS-REx successfully returns samples from asteroid. Retrieved from www.astronomy.com/science/osiris-rex-successfully-returns-samples-from-asteroid-bennu/
Ford, D.F. (September 28, 2023). October 2023. Retrieved from in-the-sky.org/newscal.php?month=10&year=2023&maxdiff=1#datesel
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