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Technology

Time: 2024-08-04

August 4, 2024 Stargazing Guide: Latest Celestial Events and Innovations

August 4, 2024 Stargazing Guide: Latest Celestial Events and Innovations
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Stargazing in August 2024

In August 2024 , the new moon is set to occur on August 4 . The month brings exciting Celestial Events , with the first quarter moon coinciding with the Perseid Meteor Shower 's peak on August 12 . Observers can expect to see a meteor a minute coming out of the northeast from midnight till dawn , with the radiant in Perseus rising around 10 p.m. The Full Moon , known as the Green Corn Moon , will grace the sky on August 19 . On the 21st , the moon will pass just north of Saturn , providing a breathtaking sight for stargazers . Additionally , the Moon will be last quarter on August 26 and will pass five degrees north of the close pairing of Mars and Jupiter on August 28.

The month of August will also see the return of Mercury and Venus to the evening sky . On August 7 , Mercury will be six degrees south of Venus before fading into the sun 's glare . Venus , on the other hand , will continue to dominate the western twilight sky through the rest of 2025 . Mars and Jupiter will have a close encounter in the dawn on August 14 , with Mars passing very close to Jupiter . Saturn will rise just after sunset by the end of August and come to opposition on September 8 . Observers with telescopes can note the narrowing of Saturn 's rings , which will reach equinox next March , making them almost invisible .

Exploring the Night Sky

For enthusiasts eager to explore the night sky , there are several notable celestial objects to observe . The Big Dipper will be visible in the northwestern sky at sunset , serving as a guide to locate Polaris , the Pole Star . By following the arc in the Dippers handle towards the southeast , stargazers can spot bright orange Arcturus , the brightest star in Bootes . Further exploration leads to Vega , the brightest star in the northern hemisphere , dominating the northeastern sky . Below Vega are the two bright stars of the Summer Triangle , Deneb , and Altair . Deneb , part of Cygnus the Swan , is one of the most luminous stars in our Galaxy , while Altair completes the triangle .

Joining Stargazing Events

For those interested in stargazing events , the Escambia Amateur Astronomers offer Pavilion Stargaze Season at Casino Beach . Participants can meet at the Beach Ball Water Tower to observe the Sun , Moon , and constellations using solar scopes and smartphones . The group also collaborates with Florida State Parks at Big Lagoon State Park for deep sky observation on weekends of the third quarter moon . Stargazers can learn to observe and photograph the night sky with binoculars , telescopes , and cameras . The Escambia Amateur Astronomers provide free star charts and guidance for those eager to explore the wonders of the night sky.

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