Below is your observing guide for the months of November and December 2024.

As the weather becomes cooler and the nights longer in the northern hemisphere, many stargazing opportunities await you to explore. This guide highlights some of the better targets you should plan to observe. While it doesn’t list all targets, it will give you a good starting point.

Of course, those in the southern hemisphere will enjoy warmer weather and shorter nights. However, they are well compensated by wonderful objects in the southern sky.

How to Use This Observing Guide

The observing guide lists eight categories of astronomical features that may be observed below. These are: key constellations, objects near each celestial pole, the Moon and its phases, planets that will be visible, eclipses, conjunctions, meteor showers and comets. Don’t worry if you don’t know what any of these are as there are explanations of each.

Where possible, it is indicated if each target is visible to the naked eye, by using binoculars or if a telescope is required.

The observation guide includes tips on how to observe each type of object.

To aid your sessions, we have included links to each object in the web version of Stellarium. You can click on the highlighted text or on the constellation images. If, for some reason, the link doesn’t work, but you arrive at Stellarium, do a search of the object in the search bar. To change the time to your current time, click on the time in the lower right and click on the small clock between the date and the time, as circled to the right.

Due to time zones, the timing of conjunctions depends on your time zone. As such, the link may not take you to when the two bodies are at their closest.

If you are very new to stargazing, our suggestion is to first identify the constellations detailed below. Locate them and then trace out their shape. This will help you learn to navigate the night sky. The time spent will make things much easier when you attempt to locate smaller and fainter targets.

As always, it is a good idea to allow your eyes to become dark adapted. This can take 30 minutes. During this time you can study the brighter stars. Remember to use a red light and/or a dark theme on any devices you are using.

Unless otherwise noted, all photographs of celestial objects in the observation guide are taken by the author. They were either taken through a moderately sized refracting telescope or using a DSLR on a tripod.

Key Constellations

A constellation is a recognized pattern of stars in the night sky. They form shapes or configurations that often resemble animals, mythological creatures, people, or objects. These patterns were identified and named by ancient civilizations to help map the heavens and navigate both land and sea. Some of the most well-known constellations, like Orion, Ursa Major, and the Zodiac constellations, are steeped in myths and legends from ancient cultures.

It is important to understand that the stars in a constellation usually aren’t physically close to each other. The shapes are only based on how the stars appear from Earth.

Below is a list of constellations that are easily observable in the Months of November and December.

Andromeda

Andromeda is a northern constellation. The stars of Andromeda don’t form an obvious pattern. It is best located by locating the prominent asterism called the Square of Pegasus with its four bright stars. Named after the mythological princess Andromeda, the daughter of Cassiopeia and Cepheus in Greek mythology, this constellation is rich in legend and astronomical wonders. Its most distinctive feature is the previously mentioned Square of Pegasus, which forms Andromeda’s body, while a chain of stars extending from one corner represents her outstretched arm.

Andromeda is most famous for hosting the Andromeda Galaxy (M31), the nearest major galaxy to our Milky Way. This constellation offers a wealth of observing opportunities for amateur astronomers. From the naked-eye visibility of the Andromeda Galaxy to the double star Almach (Gamma Andromedae), which is visible through small telescopes, this constellation provides wonderful targets to study.

Here are some suggested targets in the Andromeda Constellation:

1. Naked eye:

   – M31 (Andromeda Galaxy): Visible as a faint, fuzzy patch (best from a dark sky site.

   – Alpheratz (α Andromedae): Brightest star in the constellation.

2. Binoculars:

   – M31: Appears larger, with a more defined oval shape

   – M32: Small, faint companion galaxy to M31

3. Small telescope:

   – M31: Reveals more structure, including a hint of its dust lanes

   – M110: Another companion galaxy to M31, larger than M32

   – NGC 752: An open star cluster

   – NGC 7662: A planetary nebula which is also called the Blue Snowball Nebula

Eridanus

Eridanus is the celestial river that winds across the southern sky. Named after a mythological river in ancient Greek lore, it’s the sixth-largest constellation in the night sky. Eridanus begins near the brilliant star Rigel in Orion and meanders southward, ending with Achernar, the ninth brightest star in the night sky, which, unfortunately, is only visible from locations south of 32°N latitude.

This large constellation hosts a variety of interesting deep-sky objects, despite its location away from the Milky Way’s star fields. Notable features include the Eridanus Group of galaxies, the unusual variable star Epsilon Eridani (which has a planetary system), and several planetary nebulae like NGC 1535, also known as Cleopatra’s Eye. For observers in the northern hemisphere, Eridanus offers a gateway to the southern celestial hemisphere, inviting stargazers to explore the less familiar regions of the winter sky.

1. Naked eye:

   – Achernar (α Eridani): The brightest star in the constellation

2. Binoculars:

   – NGC 1535: A planetary nebula that appears as a small, fuzzy disc

3. Small telescope:

   – NGC 1300: Barred spiral galaxy

   – NGC 1535: Reveals a more defined disc shape

Triangulum

Triangulum, the Triangle, is a small but distinctive constellation in the northern sky, easily recognizable by its simple geometric shape formed by three moderately bright stars. This ancient constellation, one of the 48 listed by the 2nd-century astronomer Ptolemy, is nestled between the more prominent constellations of Andromeda and Aries. Despite its modest size (it ranks 78th out of the 88 modern constellations in area), Triangulum plays a significant role in the autumn and winter sky, serving as a useful pointer to locate other celestial objects.

The true jewel of Triangulum is the magnificent Triangulum Galaxy (M33), also known as the Pinwheel Galaxy. This spiral galaxy, the third-largest member of the Local Group after the Andromeda Galaxy and our Milky Way, is a challenging but rewarding target for amateur astronomers. Under dark skies, M33 can be spotted with the naked eye, making it one of the most distant objects visible without optical aid. Through telescopes, observers can discern its spiral structure, adding a touch of extragalactic wonder to this small but mighty constellation.

1. Naked eye:

   – M33 (Triangulum Galaxy): Difficult but possible under very dark skies

2. Binoculars:

   – M33: Visible as a faint, diffuse patch

3. Small telescope:

   – M33: Shows more structure, including hints of spiral arms

Cetus

Cetus, the Whale or Sea Monster, is a large and ancient constellation that dominates the southern sky during autumn and winter nights. Spanning over 1,200 square degrees, it ranks fourth in size among all 88 modern constellations. In Greek mythology, Cetus was the sea monster sent by Poseidon to ravage the kingdom of Ethiopia, only to be defeated by Perseus to save Andromeda. Despite its size, Cetus lacks very bright stars, making it a subtle yet rewarding target for patient observers.

The most famous star in Cetus is Mira (Omicron Ceti), the prototype of an entire class of variable stars. Also known as the “Wonderful Star,” Mira’s brightness fluctuates dramatically over a period of about 11 months, ranging from naked-eye visibility to requiring a telescope. Beyond Mira, Cetus hosts several interesting deep-sky objects, including the spiral galaxy M77 and the planetary nebula NGC 246, nicknamed the “Skull Nebula.” The constellation’s vast expanse and diverse celestial treasures make it a captivating region for stargazers to explore on clear winter nights.

1. Naked eye:

   – Mira (ο Ceti): Variable star, brightness changes over 11 months

2. Binoculars:

   – M77: Appears as a faint, fuzzy star

3. Small telescope:

   – M77: Reveals a small, bright core

   – NGC 247: Spiral galaxy, appears as an elongated patch

Perseus

Perseus, a prominent constellation in the northern sky, is best visible during winter nights in the Northern Hemisphere. Named after the legendary Greek hero who rescued Andromeda from Cetus, Perseus is rich in both mythology and celestial wonders. The constellation forms a distinctive shape often described as resembling the Greek letter lambda (λ), with its brightest star Mirfak (Alpha Persei) marking the figure’s waist, and the famous variable star Algol (Beta Persei), known as the “Demon Star,” representing the severed head of Medusa carried by Perseus.

This constellation is a treasure trove for amateur astronomers, offering a variety of deep-sky objects. The most spectacular of these is the Double Cluster (NGC 869 and NGC 884), a breathtaking pair of open star clusters visible to the naked eye and stunning through binoculars or a small telescope. Perseus also hosts the California Nebula (NGC 1499), a challenging but rewarding target for astrophotographers, and the Little Dumbbell Nebula (M76), a compact planetary nebula. The Perseus OB2 association, a group of hot, massive stars, adds to the constellation’s richness, making Perseus a captivating area of the winter sky for observers of all levels.

1. Naked eye:

   – Algol (β Persei): Famous variable star

   – Double Cluster (NGC 869 and NGC 884): Visible as a hazy patch

2. Binoculars:

   – Double Cluster: Resolves into two distinct clusters

   – M34: Open star cluster

3. Small telescope:

   – M76 (Little Dumbbell Nebula): Small planetary nebula

   – NGC 1499 (California Nebula): Large, faint emission nebula

Aries

Aries, though modest in brightness compared to its more prominent zodiacal neighbors, holds a distinguished place in celestial history as the ancient marker of the vernal equinox. This compact constellation, visible in the northern hemisphere’s autumn and winter skies, forms a simple pattern of three main stars that trace the ram’s head. Its brightest star, Hamal (Alpha Arietis), shines at magnitude 2.0 and represents the ram’s forehead, while Sheratan (Beta Arietis) and Mesarthim (Gamma Arietis) complete the distinctive arc of stars marking the ram’s horns.

Despite its relatively faint stars, Aries offers several interesting targets for amateur astronomers. Mesarthim stands out as a beautiful double star system, easily split in small telescopes to reveal two nearly equal-magnitude stars shining with a subtle bluish-white hue. The constellation also houses several galaxies, including NGC 772, a fine spiral galaxy visible in medium-sized telescopes under dark skies. Though lacking in bright deep-sky objects, Aries’s position between Taurus and Pisces makes it a useful stepping stone for star-hopping to more prominent celestial targets, including the Pleiades star cluster and the great square of Pegasus.

1. Naked eye:

   – Hamal (α Arietis): Brightest star in the constellation

2. Binoculars:

   – 30 Arietis: Double star

3. Small telescope:

   – γ Arietis: Triple star system. It is also called Mesarthim.

   – λ Arietis: Double star with contrasting colors

Pisces

Pisces, the Fishes, is a large and ancient constellation that spreads across a significant portion of the autumn and early winter sky. As one of the zodiac constellations, Pisces holds a special place in both astronomy and astrology. The constellation’s shape is often described as a pair of fish tied together by their tails, represented by two roughly circular patterns of stars connected by a string of fainter stars. Despite its size (14th largest of the 88 modern constellations), Pisces lacks very bright stars, making it a subtle and sometimes challenging constellation to identify in light-polluted skies.

What Pisces lacks in bright stars, it makes up for in astronomical significance and interesting deep-sky objects. The vernal equinox point, also known as the First Point of Aries, actually lies within Pisces due to the precession of the equinoxes. This makes Pisces an important reference point in positional astronomy. For amateur astronomers, Pisces offers several intriguing targets, including the spiral galaxy M74, known for its well-defined spiral structure but challenging to observe due to its low surface brightness. The constellation also hosts several double stars and the planetary nebula NGC 7293, nicknamed the “Helix Nebula,” although this object is better seen from more southerly latitudes. Pisces’ large size and position straddling the celestial equator make it a bridge between the northern and southern skies, offering observers a gateway to explore both hemispheres.

1. Naked eye:

   – No bright deep-sky objects visible to the naked eye

2. Binoculars:

   – M74: Faint, fuzzy patch (challenging)

3. Small telescope:

   – M74: Spiral galaxy, appears as a faint, round patch

   – NGC 488: Bright spiral galaxy

Objects Near the Celestial Poles

Northern Celestial Pole Region

The Northern Celestial Pole Region is a captivating area of the night sky that holds special significance for observers in the Northern Hemisphere. Centered on the celestial north pole, this region is defined by its apparent lack of motion as the Earth rotates. Stars and constellations in this area appear to slowly circle around a fixed point in the sky, creating the mesmerizing effect of star trails in long-exposure photographs. The most famous feature of this region is Polaris, the North Star, which currently lies less than a degree from the true celestial north pole.

The constellation Ursa Minor (the Little Bear) dominates this region, with Polaris marking the tip of its tail or the end of the handle of the Little Dipper asterism. Surrounding Ursa Minor are several other circumpolar constellations that never set below the horizon for observers at mid-northern latitudes. These include Ursa Major (the Great Bear), Cassiopeia (the Queen), Cepheus (the King), and Draco (the Dragon). Each of these constellations offers its own set of interesting targets for observers, from bright stars and asterisms to deep-sky objects.

For amateur astronomers, the Northern Celestial Pole Region provides a wealth of observing opportunities. The region is rich in double stars, including the famous “Double Double” (Epsilon Lyrae) in the constellation Lyra, which appears near the pole during summer evenings. Notable deep-sky objects in the circumpolar constellations include the Pinwheel Galaxy (M101) in Ursa Major, the Heart and Soul Nebulae (IC 1805 and IC 1848) in Cassiopeia, and the Cat’s Eye Nebula (NGC 6543) in Draco. The region also hosts several interesting variable stars, such as Algol (Beta Persei) in Perseus and Delta Cephei in Cepheus, the prototype of an important class of variable stars used to measure cosmic distances.

Beyond its astronomical riches, the Northern Celestial Pole Region holds cultural and navigational significance. For millennia, people have used Polaris and the circumpolar stars for navigation and timekeeping. The Big Dipper asterism in Ursa Major, easily recognizable even to casual stargazers, serves as a celestial pointer to help locate Polaris. As we observe this region, we connect not only with the wonders of the cosmos but also with the long history of human sky-watching and celestial navigation. The Northern Celestial Pole Region, ever-present in our night sky, serves as a familiar anchor point for exploring the ever-changing panorama of stars and planets throughout the year.

1. Naked eye:

   – Polaris (North Star): In Ursa Minor

   – Kochab and Pherkad: In Ursa Minor, help locate Polaris

2. Binoculars:

   – NGC 188: Old open cluster in Cepheus

   – NGC 40: Planetary nebula in Cepheus

3. Small telescope:

   – NGC 6543 (Cat’s Eye Nebula): In Draco

   – NGC 2276: Spiral galaxy in Cepheus

Southern Celestial Pole Region

The Southern Celestial Pole Region is a captivating area of the night sky that holds particular significance for observers in the Southern Hemisphere. Unlike its northern counterpart, the southern pole lacks a bright star marking its exact position. Instead, the celestial south pole is located in a relatively sparse region of the sky, adding to its mystique and challenge for navigators and astronomers alike. The stars and constellations in this area appear to rotate around this invisible point, creating stunning circular star trails in long-exposure photographs.

The constellations that dominate the Southern Celestial Pole Region are less familiar to many Northern Hemisphere observers but are rich in cultural significance and celestial wonders. The most prominent of these is Crux, the Southern Cross, which is featured on several national flags and holds deep cultural importance across the southern continents. Other key circumpolar constellations for southern observers include Centaurus, Carina, Vela, and the sprawling Argo Navis (now divided into Carina, Puppis, and Vela). These constellations never set below the horizon for observers at mid-southern latitudes, providing year-round opportunities for exploration.

For amateur astronomers, the Southern Celestial Pole Region offers a treasure trove of spectacular objects. The region is home to some of the sky’s most breathtaking sights, including the Jewel Box Cluster (NGC 4755) in Crux, the Eta Carinae Nebula (NGC 3372) in Carina, and the brilliant star Canopus in Carina, the second brightest star in the night sky. The region also boasts two of our closest galactic neighbors, the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds, irregular dwarf galaxies visible to the naked eye under dark skies. These galaxies offer a wealth of observing targets, including the Tarantula Nebula (30 Doradus) in the Large Magellanic Cloud, one of the most active star-forming regions known.

The Southern Celestial Pole Region has played a crucial role in navigation, particularly in the age of maritime exploration. Without a bright pole star, southern navigators developed techniques using Crux and the bright stars Canopus and Achernar to determine their position. Today, this region continues to captivate observers with its rich star fields, prominent sections of the Milky Way, and the allure of the Magellanic Clouds. For many Northern Hemisphere astronomers, a trip to view the southern skies is a bucket-list experience, offering a new perspective on the cosmos and a chance to see celestial wonders invisible from northern latitudes. The Southern Celestial Pole Region, with its unique character and spectacular sights, serves as a reminder of the vast diversity and beauty of our night sky.

1. Naked eye:

   – Small Magellanic Cloud: Visible from southern latitudes

   – Large Magellanic Cloud: Visible from southern latitudes

   – Achernar: Bright star near the pole in Eridanus

2. Binoculars:

   – 47 Tucanae (NGC 104): Bright globular cluster

   – NGC 292 (Small Magellanic Cloud): Shows more detail

3. Small telescope:

   – NGC 104: Resolves into individual stars

   – NGC 362: Globular cluster in Tucan

   – NGC 4755 (Jewel Box Cluster): Open cluster containing multi-colored stars

   – NGC 2070 (Tarantula Nebula): In the Large Magellanic Cloud

Note: Visibility of southern objects depends on the observer’s latitude.

Moon Phases for November and December 2024

The shape of the Moon changes each night because of the relative positions of the Moon, Earth and Sun. We only ever get to see one side of the Moon.

Listed below are the Moon phases for the months of November and December 2024.

If you are blessed with good seeing conditions you may be able to observe Lunar Rilles.

You can use this to plan your observation sessions. Dim objects are best observed when the Moon is near the new moon phase when the sky is darker.

November 2024

• New Moon: November 1
• First Quarter: November 9
• Full Moon: November 15
• Last Quarter: November 23
• New Moon: November 30

December 2024

• First Quarter: December 8
• Full Moon: December 15
• Last Quarter: December 22
• New Moon: December 30

Impact of Moon Phases on Observation

1. New Moon: Best time for observing faint deep-sky objects and meteor showers.
2. First Quarter & Last Quarter: Good for observing lunar features along the terminator (the line between light and dark sides of the moon).
3. Full Moon: Ideal for observing lunar maria and bright ray systems, but its brightness can wash out fainter celestial objects.

Observing Tips

• Plan deep-sky observations and meteor shower watching around the New Moon for optimal dark-sky conditions.
• For lunar observation, the days around First Quarter and Last Quarter often provide the most dramatic views of craters and mountains due to the shadows cast by these features.
• Remember that the moon rises about 50 minutes later each day, affecting when it will be visible in the night sky.

If while observing the Moon, you wonder how it formed, you may want to read Formation of the Moon.

Visible Planets in November and December 2024

Below is a list of planets that will be visible in November and December 2014

Mercury

• Visibility: Visible in the evening sky in late December
• Best viewing: Last week of December, low in the southwest after sunset
• Not at greatest elongation or retrograde during this period

Venus

• Visibility: Bright “Evening Star” in the western sky after sunset
• Not in opposition (Mercury and Venus never reach opposition as seen from Earth)
• Will not reach maximum elongation until January 2025
• Not in retrograde during this period

Mars

• Visibility: Becomes visible in the late evening (11 pm) in the eastern sky
• Opposition: will be at opposition in January 2025
• Retrograde motion: will enter retrograde motion on December 6, 2024
• Best viewing: After midnight but will rise earlier as the months progress

Jupiter

• Visibility: Excellent visibility throughout the period, rising early in the evening
• Opposition: December 7, 2024 (closest approach to Earth and brightest for the year)
• Retrograde motion: September 9, 2024 to January 5, 2025
• Best viewing: All night long, especially around opposition

Saturn

• Visibility: Visible in the evening sky
• Best viewing: Early evenings, setting in the west as the night progresses
• Opposition: last in opposition in September 2024
• Retrograde motion: June 29 to November 15, 2024 (ending during this period)

Uranus

• Visibility: Visible all night, best with binoculars or a small telescope
• Opposition: November 17, 2024
• Retrograde motion: September 1, 2024 to January 26, 2025
• Location: In the constellation Aries

Neptune

• Visibility: Visible for most of the night, requires a telescope
• Opposition: September 21, 2024 (prior to this period)
• Retrograde motion: June 29 to December 7, 2024
• Location: In the constellation Pisces

Observing Tips for Planets

1. Opposition: This is when a planet is opposite the Sun in our sky. It’s the best time to observe an outer planet as it’s closest to Earth and fully illuminated by the Sun.
2. Retrograde Motion: This apparent backward motion of a planet in our sky occurs when Earth overtakes an outer planet in its orbit. It can be interesting to track this motion over several nights.
3. For the naked eye planets (Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn):
   • No optical aid is necessary, but binoculars or a small telescope will reveal more details.
   • Jupiter’s four largest moons and Saturn’s rings are visible with modest optical aid.
4. For Uranus and Neptune:
   • Binoculars or a small telescope are necessary to spot Uranus.
   • A telescope is required to see Neptune.
   • Use star charts to help locate these distant planets.
5. Planetary conjunctions (close approaches of two or more planets in the sky) can occur and are worth watching for. Check astronomy websites or apps for any upcoming conjunctions during this period.

Remember to check current astronomical data closer to the date for the most accurate information about planetary positions and visibility from your specific location.

Eclipses in November and December 2024

There will be no solar or lunar eclipses during November and December 2024. Solar and lunar eclipses will next occur in March 2025.

Notable Conjunctions in November and December 2024

Conjunctions occur when two celestial objects appear close together in the sky from our perspective on Earth. Here are some notable conjunctions during this period:

November 2024

1. Moon-Venus Conjunction
   • Date: November 5, 2024
   • Details: The Moon will pass close to Venus. It will be visible in the west in the early evening sky.
2. Moon-Saturn Conjunction
   • Date: November 11, 2024
   • Details: The Moon will appear near Saturn in the early evening night sky.
3. Moon-Jupiter Conjunction
   • Date: November 17, 2024
   • Details: The Moon will appear near Saturn in the early evening night sky.
4. Moon-Mars Conjunction
   • Date: November 20, 2024
   • Details: The Moon and Mars will become visible late in the evening. They will rise in the east.

December 2024

1. Moon-Venus Conjunction
   • Date: December 4, 2024
   • Details: Another close pass of the Moon to Saturn in the evening sky. Visible at sunset
2. Venus-Pluto Conjunction
   • Date: December 8, 2024
   • Details: You will need a telescope and look soon after sunset. It will be difficult to view this.
3. Moon-Saturn Conjunction
   • Date: December 8, 2024
   • Details: On the same night of the Venus-Pluto conjunction the Moon moves close to Saturn
4. Moon-Jupiter Conjunction
   • Date: December 14, 2024
   • Details: Another opportunity to use the Moon to locate Jupiter.
5. Moon-Mars Conjunction
   • Date: December 18, 2024
   • Details: Visible later in the evening.
6. Moon-Mercury Mars
   • Date: December 29, 2024
   • Details: Visible a little before sunrise.

Observing Tips for Conjunctions

1. Lunar conjunctions are visible to the naked eye. They provide excellent opportunities for astrophotography.
2. For planetary conjunctions, binoculars can enhance the view, allowing you to see both objects in the same field of view.
3. The Mercury-Venus conjunction on December 28 will be particularly interesting. Look for them low in the southwest after sunset.
4. Conjunctions involving Uranus are good opportunities to locate this faint planet using the much more visible Moon as a guide. Use binoculars or a small telescope.
5. While these conjunctions are visible from most locations on Earth, the exact appearance and timing can vary slightly depending on your specific location. Always check local astronomical resources for precise timing and visibility information.

Remember, conjunctions are line-of-sight events. The objects aren’t actually close to each other in space, they just appear close from our viewpoint on Earth.

Note: This list includes the most notable conjunctions. There may be additional, less prominent conjunctions during this period. Check astronomical almanacs or reliable online sources closer to the date for a complete list and for the most accurate timing information.

Meteor Showers in November and December

Meteor showers are the result of the Earth moving through the path of a comet. As the comet travels, it sheds ice and other material, which enters the Earth’s atmosphere to produce meteor showers.

If you wish to find out where comets originate from, you can read this article.

November Meteor Showers

1. Taurids (Southern and Northern)
   • Active period: September 10 – December 10
   • Peak: Southern Taurids peak around November 5, Northern Taurids peak around November 12
   • Parent body: Comet 2P/Encke (Southern) and asteroid 2004 TG10 (Northern)
   • Zenithal Hourly Rate (ZHR): 5 (for each)
   • Notes: Slow-moving meteors, often bright fireballs. Good for photography.
2. Leonids
   • Active period: November 6 – November 30
   • Peak: November 17-18
   • Parent body: Comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle
   • ZHR: 10-15 (variable)
   • Notes: Fast meteors, often leaving persistent trains. Known for occasional outbursts.

December Meteor Showers

1. Geminids
   • Active period: December 4 – December 17
   • Peak: December 13-14
   • Parent body: Asteroid 3200 Phaethon
   • ZHR: 120-160
   • Notes: One of the best and most reliable annual showers. Often bright and intensely colored meteors.
2. Ursids
   • Active period: December 17 – December 26
   • Peak: December 22-23
   • Parent body: Comet 8P/Tuttle
   • ZHR: 10 (can occasionally be higher)
   • Notes: Much less known than the Geminids. Best viewed from the Northern Hemisphere.

Observing Tips for Meteor Showers

1. Choose a dark site away from city lights when there is no bright Moon.
2. Allow at least 30 minutes for your eyes to adapt to the darkness.
3. Use a reclining chair or blanket to comfortably view the entire sky.
4. Best viewing is typically after midnight and before dawn.
5. No optical aid (telescopes or binoculars) is needed – meteor showers are best observed with the naked eye.
6. Be patient – meteor activity often comes in spurts with lulls in between.

Remember that the actual number of meteors seen can vary greatly depending on viewing conditions, moon phase, and the observer’s location. Always check the moon phase for the date of observation, as a bright moon can significantly reduce the number of visible meteors.

Comets

Comet C/2024 S1 was discovered in September 2024. It was expected to become visible to the naked eye. However, as the comet approached the Sun in late October, it disintegrated and burnt up (‘Halloween comet’ breaks apart after flying close to the sun).