news 
Summer is here! As the warmest season approaches, so does the perfect time to sync your summer with the stars. From planets, full moons, and star-studded constellations to “shooting stars” and more, there’s no better way to spend your evenings than exploring the night sky.
As we head into late June, July, and August, the prime time for stargazing is upon us. With nights longer and people being outside more often – camping, barbecuing, or simply enjoying a beautiful sunset – the opportunities are endless!
Starting from Sunday, June 22nd, you can witness a beautiful trio in the dawn twilight with the 13%-lit crescent moon above brilliant Venus and the delicate stars of the Pleiades to the left. This rare sighting is only available during sunrise for those willing to wake up early.
Next on the agenda is the full ‘Buck Moon’ rising dramatically in the eastern sky just after sunset on Thursday, July 10th. Known as the Buck Moon, it will not only rise unusually low in the southern sky but also appear larger than normal due to its close proximity to Earth.
From July 17-27 and August 16-26, get away from light pollution and take a walk around dark-sky spots to witness the best views of the Milky Way running beneath you. This astronomical wonder is only accessible during specific windows when the moon is down, so make sure to check your calendar for the perfect alignment.
The Perseid meteor shower commences on July 15th, with its peak expected to be a few days later. Although it’s a bit dimmed by a nearly full moon that night, start looking early and you may spot a few bright meteors streaking across the sky around midnight. Don’t miss this unique opportunity!
To end your summer sky-watching adventure, witness the full ‘Sturgeon Moon’ rising shortly after sunset on Friday, August 8th or Saturday, August 9th. If possible, find an east-facing beach for a beautiful sunset and this stunning celestial event.
Lastly, keep an eye out for Jupiter and Venus in conjunction less than a degree apart, which will be visible just before sunrise on Tuesday, August 12th. Uranus, Neptune, and Saturn will also be present in the sky, with the former two proving difficult to see without assistance, while the latter requires binoculars.
And finally, don’t miss Mercury, Venus, Mars, and Saturn all visible together for four consecutive mornings, starting from Monday, August 18th through Thursday, August 21st. You won’t want to miss this ‘Planet Parade’ bonus event!
As you embark on these celestial adventures, we wish you clear skies and wide eyes!
Source: www.forbes.com
