This week, stargazers are treated to a cosmic spectacle as the Cold Moon illuminates the sky and Jupiter continues to shine brightly, coinciding with the peak of the Geminid meteor shower.
On Friday, December 13, the gibbous Moon passed close to Uranus, making for an interesting sight in Aries and Taurus. While spotting Uranus can be challenging due to the bright Moon, viewers may have better success observing it in the evening, positioned 40° high in the eastern sky. The planet can be easily identified with the help of binoculars, displaying a small, grayish-blue disk.
As the Geminid meteor shower peaks on Friday night, the bright Moon may hinder visibility, producing a subdued celestial display. However, those eager to catch meteors can still look towards the constellation Gemini, despite the Moon’s interference. For a better view of meteors, the upcoming Ursid meteor shower, which peaks a few days before Christmas, will benefit from darker skies.
On Saturday, December 14, asteroid 15 Eunomia reached opposition. Although the bright Moon may obscure some deep-sky objects, larger telescopes can still capture this asteroid against the backdrop of Taurus. That same day, the Moon will pass close to Jupiter in Taurus, creating an impressive sight in the evening sky. The brightness of Jupiter amidst the moonlight offers a rewarding opportunity to view the planet’s distinct cloud bands and its four Galilean moons.
Sunday marks the last Full Moon of 2024, occurring at 4:02 A.M. EST. Known as the Cold Moon, it reflects the chilly temperatures across North America this season. Observers can also look for Mercury, which will be near its stationary point in the sky, transitioning from retrograde to prograde motion.
As the week progresses, more celestial wonders await. On Monday, December 16, the double star 145 Canis Majoris in the constellation Canis Major will offer a delightful display of contrasting star colors. Later in the week, Saturn will be easily spotted amid the backdrop of Aquarius, while Mars will catch the eye during its close proximity to the Moon on December 18.
For those seeking to connect with the cosmos, the Little Dipper will be visible in all its glory on Thursday, December 19, offering a rare opportunity to witness this iconic asterism without the interference of the Moon. Finally, on December 20, Mercury will shine in the pre-dawn sky, now presenting a half-lit visage, an inviting sight for early risers.
The clear skies bring a sense of hope and wonder. As the year draws to a close, the beauty of our universe reminds us of nature’s grandeur and the often-overlooked treasures that lie above us. Stargazing not only deepens our appreciation for these celestial bodies but also encourages us to take a moment to look up and be inspired by the vastness of space.