4 spectacular astronomical events to see this August

As we transition into a new month, it’s important to stay up to date on all the astronomical events to look out for in the coming weeks. Below, you’ll find a quick guide to what’s going on in the sky this August, some events you might recognize from last year.

Stick around at the end of the guide for a bonus skywatching tips video from NASA, where you can learn the best ways to view these beautiful events.

1. New moon — Aug. 4

On Sunday, Aug. 4, the Moon will be located on the same side of the Earth as the Sun, so you won’t be able to see it in the night sky.

2. Perseid meteor shower — Aug. 11

The Perseid meteor shower, famous for producing a large amount of bright meteors, peaks on the night of Sunday, Aug. 11. Viewing conditions will be best when the Moon sets around 11:30PM, picking up from then until dawn. This meteor shower originates from comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle, which was discovered in 1862.

3. Jupiter + Mars visible — Aug. 14

You’ll be able to see Jupiter and Mars the morning of Wednesday, Aug. 14. They will both be very close to one another due to a visual phenomenon called conjunction. Keep an eye on the eastern sky a few hours before sunrise in the eastern sky to see these two planets.

4. Full moon (Sturgeon Moon) — Aug. 19

On Monday, Aug. 19, the Moon will be located on the opposite side of the Earth as the Sun, so it will be fully illuminated. This full moon phase was known by early Native American tribes as the Sturgeon Moon, since the large sturgeons of the major lakes in America were easily caught during this time of year.

This is also known as the “Blue Moon” since this is considered the extra full moon of the season.

BONUS: Skywatching tips from NASA

If you’re able to see any of these astronomical events and get some pictures, we would love to see them! Share your pictures on social media and tag us or DM us at @hvilleblast.

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