Exciting astronomical events are set to captivate skywatchers this December as the 3I/ATLAS comet makes its closest approach to Earth, the Geminid meteor shower lights up the night sky, and a conjunction occurs between the Moon and Jupiter.
On December 19, the 3I/ATLAS comet will be approximately 170 million miles away from Earth, marking its closest approach. This remarkable comet, notable for being one of only three known objects from outside our solar system to be identified within it, poses no threat to our planet. NASA is actively studying 3I/ATLAS using various spacecraft and telescopes to gather as much data as possible about this celestial visitor. Skywatchers hoping to catch a glimpse of the comet should look towards the east-northeast in the early morning hours, specifically under the star Regulus in the constellation Leo. A telescope with an aperture of at least 30 centimeters will be required to see the 3I/ATLAS comet.
Adding to the celestial excitement, the Geminid meteor shower will peak on the evenings of December 13 and 14. This annual event, known for producing bright and colorful meteors, is the result of debris from the asteroid 3200 Phaethon. On ideal nights, observers may witness up to 120 meteors per hour in the dark skies. The meteors will radiate from the eastern sky and can be spotted near the bright planet Jupiter, creating a stunning visual spectacle for nighttime enthusiasts.
Additionally, December 7 will see a conjunction of the Moon and Jupiter. During this event, the two celestial bodies will appear close together in the sky, although in reality, they are hundreds of millions of miles apart in space. Observers can enjoy this beautiful sight by looking to the eastern sky, where Jupiter will be positioned just above and to the right of the Moon.
With a host of astronomical wonders this month, December promises to be an enchanting time for star gazers. For those keen to learn more about ongoing missions in the solar system, NASA continues to share updates on their explorations at science.nasa.gov.