New Moon, Planetary Lineup, and Earth’s Biggest Stretch: This Week’s Night Sky

Get ready for a celestial show this week! The night sky is about to get exciting, with a New Moon, planetary alignment, and a special Earth milestone all happening in the next few days. Here’s what to look out for:

New Moon: A Blank Slate for Stargazing (July 17th)

The New Moon is like a cosmic reset button. It’s when the moon is completely hidden from our view, allowing for the darkest skies possible. This means it’s the perfect time to spot fainter stars and constellations, especially those typically drowned out by moonlight. Get your telescope ready!

Planetary Lineup: A Cosmic Parade (July 18th – 20th)

Mark your calendars for the 18th to the 20th. That’s when Jupiter, Mars, and Venus will align in a stunning celestial parade. Look towards the eastern horizon just before sunrise, and you’ll catch these three planets forming a triangle. It’s a rare and beautiful sight that’s not to be missed!

Earth at Aphelion: The Farthest We’ll Get (July 6th)

Did you know that Earth’s orbit isn’t perfectly circular? It’s an ellipse, meaning there’s a point where we’re farthest from the Sun. This point is called aphelion, and we just passed it on July 6th. While it might feel counterintuitive, this actually happens during the Northern Hemisphere’s summer, when we’re experiencing the warmest temperatures! This is because the Earth’s tilt, not distance from the sun, is the main factor that determines our seasons.

Don’t Forget the Basics

No matter what you’re looking at in the night sky, remember to:

• Check the weather forecast. Clear skies are essential for optimal stargazing.

• Find a location away from light pollution. The darker the sky, the better your view!

• Give your eyes time to adjust. It takes about 20 minutes for your eyes to fully adapt to the darkness.

• Use a star chart or app. These tools can help you identify stars, planets, and constellations.

Go Out and Explore!

This week offers a unique opportunity to witness some of the most amazing celestial events. So grab your friends, family, or a good book, and head outside to soak up the night sky. It’s a chance to connect with the universe and appreciate the wonders of our solar system. Happy stargazing!