This December, stargazers have plenty to look forward to in the night sky. The Full Moon, scheduled for December 15, is always a breathtaking sight that can be enjoyed without any special equipment. However, binoculars or a telescope can provide a detailed view of the Moon when it is at its fullest. The Full Moon in December, also known as the Cold Moon, will be visible not only on the day itself but also in the days surrounding it, making it a great opportunity for lunar observation.
Another celestial event to anticipate is the Jupiter opposition, which will make the planet exceptionally bright in the sky. This phenomenon is expected to occur on December 7, with Jupiter remaining bright throughout early December. To view Jupiter, stargazers can look east in the early evening on a clear night. For those who may have difficulty locating Jupiter in the sky, using the Night Sky app can help pinpoint its location quickly and accurately.
In addition to these events, the Geminids meteor shower is set to take place from November 19 to December 24, with its peak occurring on December 13 into December 14. While this meteor shower is one of the best of the year, the bright Moon approaching its full state may hinder visibility of the shooting stars. To improve the chances of seeing the meteor shower, stargazers can try to block out the Moon’s light with objects or their hand, allowing their eyes to adjust to the darkness and increasing the likelihood of spotting shooting stars streaking across the sky.
Meteor showers occur when Earth passes through debris left behind by comets or asteroids, resulting in an increased number of shooting stars visible in the night sky. The Geminids meteor shower, in particular, is known for its high meteor rates, with up to 120 shooting stars per hour during its peak. Observing these shooting stars can be an awe-inspiring experience, and stargazers are advised to dress warmly to stay comfortable during winter nights spent gazing at the stars.
Overall, December offers a variety of exciting celestial events for stargazers to enjoy, from the Full Cold Moon to the bright presence of Jupiter in the sky to the dazzling Geminids meteor shower. Whether observing these events with the naked eye or through binoculars or a telescope, the night sky promises to be a captivating sight this December. With some planning and a bit of luck with clear skies, stargazers can make the most of these opportunities to marvel at the wonders of the universe from the comfort of their own backyard.
