December Is A Month To Watch The Stars

The moon at night.Community

The moon at night.

If you’ve been out after dark, you may have noticed a shooting star or two. They are forecast to become more noticeable moving into December. Besides meteor showers, planets will align with the moon. Here’s a breakdown of what to watch for.

Geminid Meteor Showers

These nightly viewings are a must see even for the amateur. These shooting stars can be seen from December 4-17, peaking on the evening of the 13th/morning of the 14th. Experts are forecasting a viewing of more than 50 showers per hour! That’s almost one per minute! These meteor showers also have slower moving meteors which make it easier to see. Although the moon is getting larger, the viewing should start around 9:00 p.m.

To watch a meteor shower, eye viewing is the preferred over other sight enhancers. Eyes catch things that binoculars may not. However, what is advised for meteor shower viewing is a chair or blanket. Lean back and watch the show.

Moon And Planets

December 6 begins the moon lineup. Alongside the crescent moon will be Venus, the brightest planet. The next night look for Saturn. If the night is clear, you may even see rings or a moon with a telescope. The following night brings Jupiter. A telescope may help you see its four largest moons. By the 10th of December, look for a line of the moon, Jupiter, and Saturn.

Clear, crisp nights don’t all have to be spent indoors. Take the kids and head out to the fresh air, consciously seeking stars and planets in the night sky. For a more detailed look of what is to come in December, one

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