LAST LOOK

Where We Live

“It’s a priceless privilege living where I’m able to easily get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and find solitude outside. Gazing at the stars puts things in perspective and makes life seem so simple.”

REACH FOR THE STARS

As if you needed another reason to get outside, August marks one of the best months for stargazing. Don't miss these astronomical events.

August 1, Saturn at Opposition During this once-a-year event, Saturn will be closer to Earth and its face fully illuminated by the sun, making it appear about 40% larger than usual. A medium-sized (or larger) telescope will allow you to see the planet’s rings and a few of its brightest moons. August 8, New Moon The first phase of the lunar calendar, new moons occur when the sun and moon are aligned—making the moon invisible from Earth and creating the darkest sky of the month. This is the prime time to observe star clusters and see the Milky Way. August 11-13, Perseids Meteor Shower Regarded as one of the best meteor showers of the year, you can witness up to 60 shooting stars per hour (that’s one per minute!). To maximize the number of meteors you see, try watching after midnight but before dawn.

August 19, Jupiter at Opposition During this once-a-year event, Jupiter and the sun are in opposite directions, meaning the planet is closer to Earth and appears about 70% larger than usual. A medium-sized telescope will allow you to see some of the details in Jupiter's cloud bands, while a good pair of binoculars should allow you to see its four largest moons (appearing as bright dots on either side of the planet). August 22, Blue Moon Since this is the third of four full moons this season—a rare calendar event that only happens once every few years—it’s known as a blue moon (hence the term “once in a blue moon”).

SOURCE: Sea and Sky, seasky.org

Words & photo by Anthony Uy @antsyuy

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