Author: Guest Writer

By Heather Durham | August 31, 2024

September 2024 promises a spectacular array of celestial events for sky watchers in New England, with two standout occurrences that shouldn’t be missed.

The first major highlight occurs on September 8 when Saturn reaches opposition. This event marks the point when Saturn is directly opposite the Sun as seen from Earth, making it the brightest and most visible it will be all year. Even without a telescope, you’ll be able to spot Saturn easily as a bright, yellowish “star” that doesn’t twinkle. It will be visible throughout the night, offering ample opportunities for observation.

The second unmissable event happens on September 17-18, featuring a Super Harvest Moon combined with a partial lunar eclipse. This Super-moon will appear larger and brighter than usual because it coincides with the moon’s closest approach to Earth. The partial lunar eclipse adds an extra layer of intrigue, with part of the moon darkening as it passes through Earth’s shadow. This rare combination promises a captivating sight for stargazers across New England.

Here’s a chronological list of all notable events for the month:

September 4: Mercury at greatest elongation west – best time to view Mercury in the morning sky before sunrise.

September 6: Mercury at highest altitude in morning sky and at dichotomy – Mercury reaches its highest point above the horizon, with half its visible surface illuminated.

September 8: Saturn at opposition – brightest and most visible all year, appearing as a bright yellowish star.

September 9: September epsilon Perseid meteor shower – a chance to see shooting stars, though less prolific than its August counterpart.

September 11: Moon at First Quarter – good time to observe lunar features along the terminator (the line between light and dark).

September 17: Close approach and conjunction of the Moon and Saturn – a beautiful pairing in the night sky.

September 17-18: Super Harvest Moon and Partial lunar eclipse – moon appears larger and brighter, with part of its surface darkening during the eclipse.

September 21: Close approach of the Moon and M45 (Pleiades) – a chance to see the Moon near the famous “Seven Sisters” star cluster.

September 22: September equinox – marking the astronomical start of fall in the Northern Hemisphere.

September 23: Close approach and conjunction of the Moon and Jupiter – another beautiful pairing in the night sky.

September 24: Moon at Last Quarter – another good opportunity for lunar observation.

September 25: Conjunction and close approach of the Moon and Mars – the Moon pairs with the Red Planet.

September 27: Daytime Sextantid meteor shower – a meteor shower best observed by radio methods during daylight hours.

September 27: Comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) passes perihelion – a comet reaches its closest point to the Sun, potentially visible with optical aid.

This diverse array of astronomical events offers something for everyone, from casual sky watchers to dedicated amateur astronomers. Remember, most of these events are visible to the naked eye, but binoculars or a small telescope can greatly enhance your viewing experience. Happy stargazing!

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References:

Boston Astronomy. (n.d.). Events. Retrieved from www.bostonastronomy.net/Events.html

Dark Sky Maine. (n.d.). Dark Sky and Astronomy Events. Retrieved from darkskymaine.com/events

Get the Kids Outside. (n.d.). Celestial Events in 2024: Full Moons, Eclipses and Meteors. Retrieved from getthekidsoutside.com/celestial-events-in-2024/

Smithsonian Magazine. (2023, December 12). Nine Dazzling Celestial Events to Watch in 2024. Retrieved from www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/nine-dazzling-celestial-events-to-watch-in-2024-180983505/

Time and Date. (n.d.). Astronomical Events 2024. Retrieved from www.timeanddate.com/astronomy/sights-to-see.html

Traveler, C. N. (2024, February 6). 9 Night Sky Events to Chase in 2024, From Solar Eclipses to Meteor Showers. Retrieved from www.cntraveler.com/story/night-sky-events-2024

By Heather Durham | July 31, 2024

August 2024 promises to be an exciting month for stargazers, with two particularly noteworthy events capturing our attention.

The Blue Moon, occurring on August 19, is not actually blue in color but rather a name given to the third full moon in a season with four full moons. This rare occurrence happens about once every two to three years, making it a special treat for lunar enthusiasts. The term “once in a blue moon” stems from this infrequent event, adding a touch of magic to our night sky.

However, the crown jewel of August’s celestial offerings is undoubtedly the Perseid meteor shower. Peaking on the night of August 12-13, this spectacular display is renowned for its bright, fast meteors and high hourly rates. With the moon setting at midnight, the early morning hours will provide optimal viewing conditions, potentially treating observers to up to 100 meteors per hour. This celestial fireworks show is a must-see event for astronomy lovers and casual stargazers alike!

August 3: Look for a beautiful crescent moon near Venus in the early morning sky, creating a stunning celestial pair.

August 8: The new moon provides ideal dark sky conditions for observing deep-sky objects and the Milky Way.

August 11-13: The Perseid meteor shower reaches its peak, offering a dazzling display of shooting stars across the night sky.

August 14: Mars and Jupiter form a close conjunction in the pre-dawn sky, appearing less than half a degree apart – a rare and visually striking event.

August 19: The Blue Sturgeon Moon graces our sky, marking the third full moon of the summer season.

August 21: Keep an eye out for a close approach between the nearly full moon and Saturn, creating a captivating pairing in the night sky.

August 28: Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS may become visible to the naked eye as it approaches its closest point to the Sun, offering a potential rare cometary spectacle.

These celestial events promise to make August 2024 a thrilling month for skygazing. Remember to find dark locations away from city lights for the best viewing experiences!

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References:

American Meteor Society. (2024). Meteor shower calendar. Retrieved from www.amsmeteors.org/meteor-showers/meteor-shower-calendar/

Dobrijevic, D. (2023). Nine dazzling celestial events to watch in 2024. Retrieved from www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/nine-dazzling-celestial-events-to-watch-in-2024-180983505/

Time and Date AS. (2024). Astronomical events 2024. Retrieved from www.timeanddate.com/astronomy/sights-to-see.html

By Heather Durham | June 29, 2024

As we gaze up at the warm summer night sky in late July, we’re in for a celestial treat, my fellow stargazers! The Delta Aquarids meteor shower will reach its peak on the nights of July 28 and 29, offering us a spectacular display of cosmic fireworks. While this shower typically produces up to 20 meteors per hour, patient observers might catch even more under ideal conditions. The Delta Aquarids, born from the debris of comets Marsden and Kracht, will appear to radiate from the constellation Aquarius. However, these “shooting stars” can streak across any part of the sky, so don’t limit your field of view. Let’s gather under the stars, share our wonder, and witness this beautiful reminder of our place in the vast universe.

Now, let’s explore the other astronomical events for New England in July 2024, in chronological order:

July 5: New Moon. Perfect opportunity for observing faint deep-sky objects without lunar interference.

July 15-16: Mars and Uranus in conjunction, visible in the pre-dawn sky. A rare chance to spot distant Uranus near the red planet.

July 21: Full Moon, also known as the Buck Moon. Enjoy the bright, fully illuminated lunar disk lighting up the summer night.

July 22: Mercury at Greatest Eastern Elongation. Best evening visibility for the elusive innermost planet, low in the western sky after sunset.

July 28-29: Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower peak. Up to 20 meteors per hour visible under dark skies after midnight.

July 30: Mars, Jupiter, Uranus, and crescent Moon form a beautiful grouping in Taurus. A stunning planetary alignment visible in the pre-dawn sky.

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References:

Sea and Sky. (2024). Astronomy Calendar of Celestial Events 2024. Retrieved from www.seasky.org/astronomy/astronomy-calendar-2024.html

Sky at Night Magazine. (2024). Visible planets in the night sky tonight, 2024. Retrieved from www.skyatnightmagazine.com/advice/skills/astronomy-guide-viewing-planets-night-sky

KOA Camping Blog. (2024). Make Plans for These Celestial Events in 2024. Retrieved from koa.com/blog/celestial-events/

By Heather Durham | May 31, 2024

For a few days around the summer solstice each year, New Yorkers are treated to a special celestial display called “Manhattan Henge.” This occurs when the setting sun aligns perfectly with the east-west street grid in Manhattan, creating a stunning vista of sunlight blasting across the urban canyons (Beatty, 2017). On the evenings of May 29th and July 12th in 2024, the full sun will be visible setting directly along the borough’s main thoroughfares like 14th Street, 23rd Street, 34th Street and 42nd Street. Crowds gather along these corridors to photograph the dazzling scene as the fiery orb sinks between the towering skyscrapers. It’s a remarkable example of how the cosmos can intersect with the rigid geometry of the modern cityscape, offering a unique astronomy experience in the heart of the Big Apple’s concrete jungle (Zimmer, 2019).

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June 2, 2024

Get ready for a celestial treat! The waning crescent Moon will snuggle up close to the red planet Mars in the evening sky (Starwalk, 2023). Both objects will be visible to the naked eye in the constellation Pisces. This cosmic duo is sure to delight stargazers of all ages.

June 4, 2024

Keep your eyes peeled for a rare planetary conjunction! The gas giants Jupiter and Mercury will appear to meet up in the constellation Taurus, separated by a mere 0°07′ (Starwalk, 2023). While conjunctions like this are not uncommon, they’re always a joy to witness with your own eyes or a pair of binoculars.

June 6, 2024

Tonight marks the New Moon phase, when the Moon’s unilluminated side faces the Earth (Starwalk, 2023). This is an excellent opportunity for some prime stargazing, as the Moon’s bright light won’t wash out the fainter celestial objects. Grab your telescope or binoculars and explore the wonders of the night sky!

June 10, 2024

For early risers, the waning crescent moon will be visible low in the eastern sky before dawn. Mercury and Mars will be nearby the slender morning moon, making for a lovely celestial tableau to start the day (Kelley & Milone, 2011). Set those alarms and let the cosmic wakeup call pull you out of bed!

June 16, 2024

The new moon occurs tonight, making for prime dark sky viewing across New England. With no bright moonlight to dampen the view, take advantage by scanning the heavens for the summer Milky Way arching across the sky. See if you can discern its cloudy, faint glow cutting a path from the southern horizon through the constellations Scorpius, Sagittarius and northward (Dickinson, 2014).

June 20, 2024

Rejoice, for today is the June solstice – the official start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere (EarthSky, 2023)! This is the day when the Sun reaches its northernmost point in the sky, resulting in the longest period of daylight (U.S. Department of Commerce, 2024; BBC Sky at Night Magazine, n.d.). Celebrate by spending some extra time outdoors and soaking up those glorious rays of sunshine.

June 23, 2024

Tonight the waxing gibbous moon will be in the same general vicinity as dazzling Jupiter in the evening sky. The largest planet in our solar system and Earth’s celestial companion will make for an eye-catching duo high overhead as darkness falls (Bakich, 2017). Perhaps grab a sketchpad and try drawing their bright forms against the backdrop of stars?

June 30, 2024

Look towards the southeast after midnight and you may catch a glimpse of the Eta Aquarid meteor shower (Rendtel, 2014). While the peak occurred back in early May, some lingering debris from Halley’s Comet should still provide a few “shooting stars” per hour in the hours before dawn.

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References:

Aveni, A. (2003). Observing Venus naked-eye phase phenomena. Archaeoastronomy, 17, 154-196.

Bakich, M. E. (2017). The Cambridge guide to the planets. Cambridge University Press.

BBC Sky at Night Magazine. (n.d.). Solstices and equinoxes explained. www.skyatnightmagazine.com/space-science/solstices-equinoxes

Beatty, J.K. (2017). The Urban Astronomers Guide. Springer.

Dickinson, T. (2014). The universe unveiled: Latest deep space images from the Hubble Space Telescope. Firefly Books.

EarthSky. (2023, June 19). 2024 June solstice: All you need to know. Retrieved from earthsky.org/astronomy-essentials/everything-you-need-to-know-june-solstice/

Kelley, D. H., & Milone, E. F. (2011). Exploring ancient skies: An encyclopedic survey of archaeoastronomy. Springer.

Rendtel, J. (2014). 2014 Meteor shower calendar. International Meteor Organization.

Starwalk. (2023). All astronomical events 2024: Detailed stargazing calendar. Retrieved from starwalk.space/en/news/astronomy-calendar-2024

U.S. Department of Commerce, N.O.A.A. (2024). Earth seasons – Equinoxes and solstices – 2024-2027. [PDF].

Zimmer, A.M. (2019). Urban astronomy: Stargazing from towns and suburbs. Cambridge University Press.

By Heather Durham | April 30, 2024

## The Radiant Full Flower Moon

On May 23rd, the night sky will be illuminated by the radiant glow of the Full Flower Moon. This celestial event gets its name from the abundance of spring flowers that bloom during this time of year, painting the landscape with vibrant colors.[1][4] As the moon reaches its full phase, its brilliant face will be a sight to behold, casting a warm glow over the Earth below.

The Full Flower Moon holds special significance for many cultures and traditions. In Native American lore, it was a symbol of renewal and fertility, marking the time when nature awakens from its winter slumber.[1][4] Farmers and gardeners alike would look to this moon as a signal to begin planting their crops, ensuring a bountiful harvest in the months to come. Whether you’re an avid stargazer or simply appreciate the beauty of nature, the Full Flower Moon is a reminder to pause and appreciate the wonders of the cosmos and the cyclical rhythms of life on our planet.[1][4]

May 4-5

Get ready for a celestial fireworks show! The Eta Aquariids meteor shower will be putting on a dazzling display in the night sky on May 4th and 5th. With the Moon only 14% full, the conditions are perfect for spotting these shooting stars streaking across the heavens. Grab a cozy blanket, some snacks, and your favorite stargazing buddies for an unforgettable cosmic spectacle.[3]

May 6, 7

The Eta Aquarids is an above average shower, capable of producing up to 60 meteors per hour at its peak. In the Northern Hemisphere, the rate can reach about 30 meteors per hour at the peak.[3]

May 9

Calling all night owls and astronomy enthusiasts! On May 9th, the New Moon will grace the skies, offering a prime opportunity to witness the Milky Way’s galactic center in all its glory. With minimal moonlight interference, the celestial canvas will be a stunning backdrop for stargazing adventures. Who knows, you might even spot a few cosmic surprises![1] Look to the eastern sky just before sunrise on May 9 to catch a glimpse of Mercury at its greatest western elongation from the Sun. With a maximum separation of 26.4 degrees, Mercury will be at its highest point above the horizon, making it an excellent opportunity for viewing.[4]

May 23

Get ready for a celestial showstopper! On May 23rd, the Full Moon will take center stage, illuminating the night sky with its radiant glow. This is the perfect chance to gather your loved ones, spread out a picnic blanket, and bask in the lunar splendor. Don’t forget to make a wish or two – after all, it’s a full moon![1]

May 30

Calling all city slickers and nature lovers alike! On May 30th, the streets of Manhattan will align perfectly with the setting sun, creating the mesmerizing phenomenon known as “Manhattanhenge.” This celestial event offers a unique opportunity to witness the urban landscape bathed in golden hues. Whether you’re in New York or New Hampshire, grab your camera and get ready to capture some truly Instagram-worthy moments![1]

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Sources

[1] In-The-Sky.org. (2024). Calendar of Astronomical Events 2024. Retrieved from in-the-sky.org/newscal.php

[2] Fox Weather. (2024). Watch out for these astronomical events in 2024. Retrieved from www.foxweather.com/earth-space/calendar-guide-2024-moon-stars-planets-when

[3] Sea and Sky. (2024). Astronomy Calendar of Celestial Events 2024. Retrieved from www.seasky.org/astronomy/astronomy-calendar-current.html

[4] Stargazing Guide. (2024). What’s in The Skies at Getaway | 2024. Retrieved from journal.getaway.house/whats-in-the-skies-at-getaway-2024-stargazing-guide/

[5] Royal Observatory Greenwich. Astronomy Calendar 2024. Retrieved from www.rmg.co.uk/stories/astronomy/guide-night-sky

By Heather Durham | March 9, 2024

APRIL 8, 2024 SOLAR ECLIPSE

Greetings Celestial Seasonings readers:

Today, we’re embarking on an exciting journey to explore the captivating phenomenon of solar eclipses. Picture this: the sun, our radiant star, momentarily obscured by the moon, casting a spellbinding shadow on our planet. It’s a cosmic spectacle that has fascinated humanity for centuries, and we’re about to unravel its mysteries together.

Understanding Solar Eclipses:

So, what exactly is a solar eclipse? In simple terms, a solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, blocking all or part of the sun’s light. This alignment creates captivating celestial events that vary in intensity and appearance.

Types of Solar Eclipses:

Total Solar Eclipse: Imagine the sky darkening in the middle of the day, the sun’s brilliance dimming, and a sense of wonder enveloping the world around you. That’s the magic of a total solar eclipse. During totality, the moon completely covers the sun, revealing its ethereal corona – its outer atmosphere – in a breathtaking display. It’s a rare and awe-inspiring sight that leaves observers spellbound.

Partial Solar Eclipse: In a partial solar eclipse, the moon only partially covers the sun, creating a mesmerizing crescent shape in the sky. While not as dramatic as a total eclipse, a partial eclipse still offers a remarkable celestial show, reminding us of the intricate dance of celestial bodies in our solar system.

Annular Solar Eclipse: During an annular eclipse, the moon covers the central portion of the sun, leaving a ring of sunlight visible around the edges. This creates the mesmerizing “ring of fire” effect, where the sun appears as a brilliant circle surrounded by darkness. Annular eclipses are captivating events that highlight the dynamic nature of celestial alignments.

The Upcoming Solar Eclipse: April 8, 2024

Mark your calendars, my fellow sky gazers, for the next solar eclipse is scheduled to grace our skies on April 8, 2024. This eagerly anticipated event is forecasted to be a total solar eclipse, visible across a swath of North America. Imagine being in the path of totality, where the moon will completely obscure the sun for a few precious moments. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

Only the northern third of New Hampshire – mostly Coös County – will experience a total eclipse. Milton will be in the zone experiencing a partial eclipse – up to approximately 95% eclipse coverage of the Sun. The eclipse will begin about 2:14 PM (EDT), but the fullest coverage will run only from about 3:28 PM to 3:34 PM, winding down again to a partial conclusion about 4:39 PM. An event such as this will not reoccur until 2079!

Safety Precautions:

While witnessing a solar eclipse is an unforgettable experience, it’s crucial to observe it safely. Staring directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can cause permanent eye damage. Be sure to use proper eye protection like solar viewing glasses or eclipse viewers to enjoy this cosmic spectacle safely.

In conclusion, solar eclipses are not only awe-inspiring displays of nature’s grandeur but also opportunities for scientific exploration and wonder. So, my fellow students, let’s embrace the upcoming solar eclipse with curiosity and excitement, for it’s a chance to witness the magic of the universe firsthand. Until then, keep looking up at the stars and never stop exploring the mysteries of the cosmos!

With celestial excitement,

Heather

By Heather Durham | February 29, 2024

Greetings Celestial Seasonings readers!

Below is what can be seen with the naked eye in March, encompassing everyone. And be on the lookout for a Celestial Seasonings news flash coming soon about that solar eclipse we can expect in April. Happy viewing everyone for soon or maybe already, signs of spring will be upon us.

The spring equinox, a celestial event steeped in tradition and wonder, marks the moment when the sun crosses the celestial equator, bringing about a delicate balance between light and darkness. Occurring around March 20th in the Northern Hemisphere, this phenomenon heralds the onset of spring, infusing the world with a sense of renewal and rejuvenation. As day and night share equal sway, the natural world awakens from its wintry slumber, bursting forth with new life and vitality. It’s a time of transition, where the earth tilts towards the sun, bathing the landscape in its warm embrace and coaxing dormant buds to bloom. Across cultures, the spring equinox has been celebrated as a time of rebirth and fertility, with rituals and festivities honoring the promise of the season ahead. Whether through ancient traditions or modern observations, the spring equinox serves as a reminder of the eternal cycle of life and the enduring beauty of the natural world.

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March 3: Behold the moon’s graceful descent into the last quarter, as its luminous orb adorns the night sky with a serene glow, casting enchanting shadows and illuminating the celestial canvas with ethereal beauty.

March 13: Prepare to be captivated by a celestial spectacle as the moon and Jupiter engage in a mesmerizing close approach and conjunction. Together, they paint the expanse of the night sky with radiant splendor, their celestial dance evoking a sense of awe and wonder among observers.

March 14: Embark on a cosmic journey of discovery as the moon draws near to the ethereal Pleiades star cluster (M45), known for its celestial allure and mythical significance. In a breathtaking close approach, the moon and the Pleiades converge, offering a breathtaking sight that stirs the imagination and ignites a sense of wonder.

March 19: Embrace the arrival of the March equinox, a pivotal moment in the celestial calendar marking the transition from winter to spring. As day and night share equal footing, the cosmos celebrates a harmonious balance, signaling the renewal of life and the promise of new beginnings.

March 22: Marvel at the celestial symmetry of Mercury as it reaches dichotomy, a phenomenon where the planet appears half-illuminated from our vantage point on Earth. Its radiant glow captivates the night sky, inviting stargazers to ponder the mysteries of the cosmos and the wonders of our solar system.

March 24: Delight in Mercury’s celestial ballet as it ascends to its highest altitude in the sky and reaches its greatest elongation east. Against the backdrop of the celestial sphere, Mercury shines brightly, offering a celestial spectacle that enchants the senses and sparks the imagination.

March 25: Experience the grand finale of the month with the full moon gracing the night sky, accompanied by a penumbral lunar eclipse. As Earth’s shadow gently kisses the lunar surface, a cosmic embrace unfolds, inviting observers to witness the celestial dance between Earth, the moon, and the sun in a captivating display of cosmic harmony.

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References:

Cosmic Explorer. (2024, February 25). Astronomy events in March 2024. Retrieved from youtube/dp1PKEbRzPI?si=K8fvrkirDlMpKtMM

DEEPSPACE. (2024, February 25). Astronomical Events March 2024. Retrieved from youtube/IDWj76GeewA?si=43GH0PkpDENU80Lq

Ford, D.F. (February 28, 2024). March 2024. In-The-Sky.org. Retrieved from youtube/dp1PKEbRzPI?si=K8fvrkirDlMpKtMM