For those wrapped up in the wonders of the universe, there’s excitement brewing as we gear up for upcoming celestial spectacles: full moons and the enchanting Northern Lights. Get ready to mark your calendars because these astronomical events promise to deliver some stunning views this summer.
The highlight for many sky gazers will be the Buck Moon, which will shine brightly on the night of July 21, 2024. Named for the time when male deer, or bucks, begin to grow their antlers, this full moon holds significance rooted deep in Native American traditions. Not only does it illuminate the night sky, but it also carries with it the seasonality of wildlife, signaling the changing times of nature.
For those not able to catch the moon on the exact night of its peak, fear not! The Buck Moon can still be appreciated for days around its full phase. From the evening of July 19 through July 23, it will appear almost fully illuminated, offering splendid views, especially just after sunset when it first rises. It’s during this time the moon often seems to hang low, casting warm hues over the horizon.
But how can one catch the best sight of this astronomical delight? Ideally, you’ll want to find yourself away from city lights. Open parks, fields, or beaches provide unobstructed views of the eastern horizon where the moon rises. Checking the weather forecast for clear skies will also be beneficial to avoid any disappointments on the night of the show. Binoculars and small telescopes can certainly amplify your viewing experience, making each crater and detail pop.
For those residing or traveling nearby, several picturesque locations near New Jersey and Pennsylvania are touted as prime spots for moon-watching. High Point State Park stands out as the highest elevation spot in New Jersey, offering expansive views and relatively little light pollution. Just over the border, Cherry Springs State Park is celebrated for its dark skies, making it the perfect sanctuary for stargazers. Another fantastic choice is Valley Forge National Historical Park, where history and nature intertwine, providing both serenity and splendid views.
And what's more? Following closely on the heels of the Buck Moon, August will bring the Sturgeon Moon—another spectacular full moon. Set to peak on August 19, 2024, this will also be classified as a supermoon. What does this mean, you ask? A supermoon occurs when the full moon aligns with the moon's orbit at its closest point to Earth, known as perigee. This cosmic closeness makes the moon appear slightly larger and brighter than usual.
The seasonal naming of moons stems from Indigenous practices, with the Sturgeon Moon emerging from the sturgeon fish being most readily caught during this time. This double treat not only delights the eyes but also connects observers with historical cultural significances.
While these moons will have their moments of glory, it’s worth noting the Northern Lights, known as the aurora borealis, add another layer of celestial fascination. For those residing particularly in the northern regions, the weekend around August 11th is projected to offer potential sightings of this magnificent display due to cosmic events triggered by solar activity.
The Northern Lights occur when charged particles from the sun collide with gases in Earth’s atmosphere, creating vibrant displays of greens, purples, and pinks. This performance is best viewed away from urban areas where light pollution can dampen the spectacle. Should the skies be compliant, areas stretching from Northern Scotland down to northern England and Northern Ireland may find themselves bathed in this ethereal glow.
The Met Office has issued forecasts, predicting geomagnetic storms could lead to enhanced auroral activity. Thus, the weekend is shaping up to be one for the astronomy enthusiasts, as both the Buck Moon and the Northern Lights present rare opportunities to witness the universe’s beauty.
So, if you’re up for some unforgettable stargazing, prepare yourself: gather your favorite blankets, telescope, or binoculars, and head outside. Whether it’s the enchanting glow of the Buck Moon lighting your path or the swirling colors of the aurora dancing overhead, it’s all waiting for you out there, above the world.
These celestial events are not only spectacular to watch; they are also reminders of nature’s wondrous phenomena and the narratives woven through cultural traditions. With plenty of opportunities for stunning views this summer, sky watchers will certainly be entertained. Make the most of these summers nights and get ready to experience the magic of the night sky!
