This year’s night sky has been quite the celestial spectacle–from rare planetary alignments and meteor showers to zipping comets and several displays of the northern lights. But the skies aren’t stopping there–in true New York fashion we’re going out with a bang!
This December’s cosmic calendar is shaping up to be quite mesmerizing for skywatchers, and you won’t want to miss any of it! Here’s what you can expect:
Jupiter opposition – December 7th
Jupiter, the biggest planet in the solar system, will be on display in the sky this month shining brighter than it has all year.
Jupiter will reach opposition–the point in its orbit when it appears opposite the sun in the sky–this weekend on Saturday, December 7th. During this time the planet is also closest to the Earth, making it appear particularly bright.
The best part: telescopes and binoculars aren’t required to see Jupiter, all you need to do is look up into the night sky! However, those who do have stargazing equipment on hand can also catch a glimpse of the planet’s four largest moons. The event begins during the first full weekend of December, though it will be on display all month long.
Geminids Meteor Shower – December 12th & 13th
This month a “beast of meteor showers” will zip through the NYC night sky, specifically the Geminids meteor shower. This particular meteor shower is an annual event, meaning it’s not rare, but it is particularly special because, unlike some meteor showers that can only be viewed in the hours before sunrise, the Geminids are active all night long, according to AccuWeather.
The meteor shower peaks on the night of Thursday, December 12th, into the early hours of Friday, December 13th. And though most years the shower boasts up to 120 meteors per hour traveling more than 78,000 mph, a nearly full moon will outshine many of the dimmer meteors.
For the best chance of spotting shooting stars, be sure to give your eyes about 30 minutes to adjust to the dark and focus your attention on darker areas of the sky where the moon is out of view. NASA solar system ambassador Kat Troche stated:
All you have to do is kick back, relax, take your time, and you’re gonna look toward the constellation Gemini.
Final Full Moon of 2024 – December 14th & 15th
Right after the Geminids meteor shower, the year’s last full moon will rise. This full moon is commonly called the Cold Moon as an ode to the bitter cold air that descends upon North America as winter arrives. The full moon will be 100% illuminated on December 15th at 4:02am EST.
According to the Farmer’s Almanac, this full moon also has several other nicknames, including Little Spirit Moon, symbolizing a time to honor and remember ancestors and seek their guidance for the year ahead.
Ursids Meteor Shower – December 21st & 22nd
The Geminids meteor shower won’t be the only one to send shooting stars through the night sky this month–the Ursids meteor shower will also make an appearance, and on the first night of winter, no less, which means you’ll have plenty of time to view the meteor shower on the longest night of the year!
The Ursids will peak on the night of Saturday, December 21st, into the early morning hours of Sunday, December 22nd. Stargazers who brave the cold may see up to 10 shooting stars per hour.
December has the longest nights of the entire year which means more time for stargazing. However, it also brings an uptick in storms and clouds, which can viewing some of the upcoming celestial sights quite a challenge. So everyone be sure to cross your fingers for clear skies all month long!