Astronomical Events
Welcome to the 2024 astronomical calendar, your guide to the most exciting events happening in the night sky this year. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or simply enjoy looking up at the stars, 2024 promises a spectacular lineup of celestial occurrences. From dazzling supermoons and planetary oppositions to stunning meteor showers and eclipses, each month brings something unique to observe.
This calendar is designed to help you stay informed and make the most of these moments. Whether you’re planning a night of stargazing, photographing the planets, or just want to know when to look up, this guide will ensure you never miss a beat. Explore the wonders of the universe from your own backyard, and let the beauty of the cosmos inspire you throughout the year.
September
September 3 – New Moon
The Moon will be in the same part of the sky as the Sun, so it won’t be visible at night. This is a great time to see faint objects like galaxies and star clusters, as there will be no moonlight to interfere.
September 5 – Mercury’s Best View
Mercury will be at its highest point in the morning sky, making it the best time to see the planet. Look for it low in the eastern sky just before sunrise.
September 8 – Saturn Shines Bright
Saturn will be closest to Earth and fully lit up by the Sun. It will be brighter than any other time this year and visible all night. This is the perfect time to see and photograph Saturn and its rings.
September 18 – Full Moon, Supermoon
The Moon will be fully illuminated and look slightly bigger and brighter than usual because it’s closer to Earth. This is also called the Harvest Moon, the full moon closest to the September equinox.
September 18 – Partial Lunar Eclipse
A part of the Moon will darken as it moves through Earth’s shadow. This partial eclipse will be visible in many parts of North and South America, Europe, and Africa.
September 20 – Neptune’s Best View
Neptune will be closest to Earth and fully lit up by the Sun. It will appear as a tiny blue dot in the night sky, but this is the best time to see and photograph the distant planet.
September 22 – September Equinox
The Sun will shine directly on the equator, giving nearly equal day and night across the world. This marks the start of fall in the Northern Hemisphere and spring in the Southern Hemisphere.