This October, the night sky promises a celestial showcase with breathtaking events like a "ring of fire" solar eclipse and dazzling meteor showers. Grab your telescopes and mark your calendars — it's the perfect time to marvel at the universe's wonders!
Oct 1, 2024
By: deekshith.pinto@timesinternet.in
Credit: NASA
A "ring of fire" will be visible in parts of South America, including Chile and Argentina. This happens when the Moon is too far from Earth to completely cover the Sun, resulting in a spectacular annular eclipse.
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This meteor shower, originating from the constellation Draco, is best viewed just after nightfall. Although the Draconids are typically less intense, they occasionally surprise observers with outbursts of bright meteors.
Credit: Pixabay
Peaking on October 10, this meteor shower is known for producing slow-moving fireballs, making it a worthwhile event to observe, even though it’s not the most intense shower.
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The October Full Moon, also known as the Hunter's Moon, will rise. In 2024, this is also a Supermoon, meaning it will appear larger and brighter in the sky.
Credit: NASA
The second meteor shower of October, the Orionids, are a product of Halley's Comet. Expect to see around 10-20 meteors per hour during its peak.
Credit: NASA
On this day, the Moon and Jupiter will be in close proximity in the sky, offering a beautiful pairing for skywatchers. There will also be a lunar occultation of Beta Tauri (image is representational)
Credit: NASA
The Moon will pass near Mars in the sky, another conjunction event, providing a great opportunity for observation with the naked eye or binoculars.
Credit: NASA
Although less prominent than others, the Leonis Minorids offer a modest display of meteors during late October.
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This near-Earth asteroid, one of the largest, will be well placed for observation, especially for those with telescopes.
Credit: Pixabay
This comet, discovered in 2023, will reach its closest approach to Earth, potentially becoming a visible object to the naked eye.
Credit: NASA