October 2024 is shaping up to be a remarkable month for astronomers, stargazers, and anyone fascinated by the cosmos, with 10 spectacular celestial events taking place throughout the month. From a dazzling “Ring of Fire” solar eclipse to the close approach of Comet C/2023 A3, October promises to deliver a series of awe-inspiring sights in the night sky.
Highlights include the Draconid, Southern Taurid, and Orionid meteor showers, a breathtaking supermoon, and close encounters between the moon and planets like Jupiter and Saturn. Whether you’re an experienced astronomer or simply enjoy skywatching, there’s no shortage of cosmic displays to enjoy.
Be sure to mark your calendars for these extraordinary events and prepare for a month of celestial wonder, beginning with the solar eclipse on October 2.
Must-see celestial wonders this month
October 2, 2024 —Annular Solar Eclipse (Ring of fire)
Kicking off the month is the stunning annular solar eclipse, commonly known as the “Ring of Fire.” This occurs when the moon passes directly between the Earth and the sun but is too far from Earth to completely cover the sun. The result? A glowing ring of light encircling the moon, visible from parts of North and South America, including Argentina and Chile. The eclipse begins at 9:12 IST.
October 8-9, 2024 —Draconid Meteor Shower
The Draconid meteor shower peaks on the night of October 8. Though less active compared to other meteor showers, the Draconids can still produce a captivating display, with meteors appearing to radiate from the Draco constellation. The best time to catch this event is just after nightfall.
October 10, 2024 —Southern Taurid Meteor Shower
The Southern Taurids, known for producing impressive fireballs, will light up the skies on October 10. Originating from the constellation Taurus, this meteor shower is one of two streams (the other being the North Taurids). For the best view, look to the middle of the night when Taurus is high in the sky.
October 17, 2024 —Full Hunter’s Moon
October’s full moon, known as the Hunter’s Moon, will shine brightly on the night of October 17. This particular full moon is also a supermoon, occurring just a day after the moon reaches perigee—the closest point in its orbit to Earth. The moon will be fully illuminated, reflecting sunlight as it sits opposite the Earth from the sun.
October 20-21, 2024 —Orionid Meteor Shower
A by-product of Halley’s Comet, the Orionid meteor shower will peak on October 20-21. With around 20 meteors per hour visible in clear skies, this shower is best viewed in the early hours before dawn. The Orionids radiate from the constellation Orion, which can easily be spotted by its distinct belt of three stars.
October 23, 2024 —Conjunction of the Moon and Jupiter
On this night, the moon will align closely with the gas giant Jupiter, providing a striking conjunction in the night sky. The pair will be visible after sunset, offering a beautiful view through binoculars or telescopes.
October 27, 2024 —Asteroid 1036 Ganymed
Asteroid 1036 Ganymed, one of the largest near-Earth asteroids, will make its closest approach to Earth on October 27. Although not considered hazardous, its proximity makes it a fascinating object to observe. Ganymed’s diameter is about 37.7 kilometres, comparable in size to the city of Houston.
October 29, 2024 —Conjunction of the Moon and Saturn
Following its conjunction with Jupiter, the moon will align with Saturn on October 29. Saturn’s rings will be a highlight for those viewing through telescopes, and the conjunction will be visible just after sunset.
October 31, 2024 —Comet C/2023 A3 Perigee
October ends with the close approach of Comet C/2023 A3, offering a dazzling spectacle as it makes its closest approach to Earth (Perigee). This rare comet is expected to be visible through telescopes, with a potential tail lighting up the sky for viewers lucky enough to have clear skies.
Also read: NASA’s stunning visuals of the sun, stars, galaxy, and stellar universe
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