The skies will be alive with celestial activity throughout 2025, making it the perfect year for stargazers both in New Zealand and the United Kingdom. From eclipses to meteor showers, the upcoming cosmic events promise to deliver breathtaking experiences for those willing to step outside and gaze upon the night sky.
New Zealand is set for spectacular astronomical occurrences, including two total lunar eclipses on March 14 and September 7. On these dates, the Earth will find itself positioned between the sun and the moon, casting its shadow on the lunar surface, resulting in a stunning display. Stargazers should prepare by wearing appropriate eye protection during the partial solar eclipses slated for March 29 and September 21, where the moon will partially obscure the sun, dimming the daylight for spectators.
"Whether you drive to the middle of nowhere or just turn off your house lights and stand outside, make an effort to experience these peak stargazing events," advised Annie Sherman, guiding enthusiasts on how to make the most of the upcoming events.
Between March and September, the Aurora Australis, or Southern Lights, will cast its enchanting glow across Southern skies. Best viewed around one hour after sunset until dawn, this stunning phenomenon can bathe the night sky with colors of pink, red, purple, and green, providing a delightful canvas for onlookers.
For those wishing to witness shooting stars, the Eta Aquariid meteor shower will occur on May 5-6, peaking shortly before dawn, with the possibility of spotting up to 50 meteors per hour. Following this, the Southern Delta Aquariids will grace the night from July 29-30, showcasing shorter but equally captivating displays.
Notably, New Zealand is home to three dark sky sanctuaries, making it easier for stargazers to find optimal viewing spots. The Wairarapa Dark Sky Reserve is renowned for its pristine and undisturbed environment, making it perfect for those hoping to catch the dazzling light shows. Meanwhile, the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve is the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, confirming its status as a premier location for astrotourism.
Interestingly, across the globe, forecasts indicate 2025 as the year for increased visibility of the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, particularly impacting the North East region of England. Krista Hammond, from the Met Office Space Weather Operations Centre, points out, "Activity on the sun... varies over roughly an 11-year period, known as the solar cycles.” With the next solar maximum on the horizon, more of the sun’s charged particles will make their way to Earth, enhancing the chances of witnessing these spectacular auroras.
Recent displays have delighted residents across regions like County Durham, Tyneside, and Northumberland, as light shows have started to spread more broadly due to increased solar activity. "We can expect to see more chances to see the Aurora Borealis over the UK," Hammond added, encouraging sky-watchers to stay vigilant during clear, dark nights.
To fully appreciate the beauty of these celestial displays, astronomers suggest finding locations with minimal light pollution and clear skies. Between March and September, the captivating Aurora Australis will be particularly vibrant, as noted earlier, presenting various opportunities for stargazers.
Galactic marvels don't stop with auroras. The Royal Museums Greenwich explains how solar storms release clouds of charged particles, which interact with Earth’s atmosphere to create the magnificent displays of light known as auroras. Astronomer Tom Kerss explains, “These particles then slam... and making it glow.” Such scientific explanations provide great insight, enhancing the stargazing experience.
To maximize your stargazing experience, here are some tips: aim for nights with minimal moonlight to increase visibility and don warm clothing as temperatures can dip significantly after sunset. While many celestial events can be viewed with the naked eye, binoculars or telescopes can heighten your experience.
Entry to public places like Aoraki Mackenzie and Wairarapa reserves remains free, though some guided tours may charge fees ranging from $20 to $100 NZD, depending on the offerings and experiences they provide. Planning your stargazing itinerary well is recommended as interest peaks during these special events.
Whether you’re deeply passionate about astronomy or simply curious about the mysteries of the universe, 2025 is sure to leave you mesmerized by its setup of celestial events. Pack your stargazing gear and prepare for unforgettable nights of wonder!