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Observing the Perseids as the ‘Full Buck Moon’ Rises: Highlights of the Night Sky This Week

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As we journey through the night sky this week, several celestial events promise to captivate stargazers and astronomers alike.

Monday, July 15: Mars and Uranus Conjunction In the pre-dawn hours, look toward the eastern horizon to witness Mars shining prominently above Jupiter. With binoculars, you may spot Uranus positioned just above Mars, adding to the spectacle of the morning sky.

Wednesday, July 17: Moon and Antares After sunset, gaze southward to behold a waxing gibbous moon, illuminated at 87%, in close proximity to Antares, the brilliant red supergiant star in the constellation Scorpius. This celestial pairing, approximately three degrees apart, offers a striking visual contrast.

Saturday, July 20: Mars and the Pleiades Before sunrise, direct your attention to the eastern sky where Mars will gleam about four degrees from the Pleiades, a renowned open star cluster also known as M45 or the “Seven Sisters.” Despite urban light pollution, these stars form a distinct pattern resembling a small, unmistakable “Big Dipper.”

Saturday, July 20: Full ‘Buck Moon’ Rising This weekend, anticipate the rise of the full moon, known as the “Buck Moon” in North America. Appearing low on the horizon and rising late, this lunar spectacle marks the seventh full moon of 2024 and the second of summer in the northern hemisphere. Also recognized as the “Thunder Moon” and the “Hay Moon,” its ascent will be most impressive on Saturday, July 20.

Perseids Meteor Shower Commencing this week, the annual Perseids meteor shower will gradually intensify, peaking on August 11-12 with the potential to produce up to 100 meteors per hour. This beloved celestial event is eagerly anticipated by observers across the northern hemisphere.

Prepare to be mesmerized by these celestial wonders throughout the week, offering ample opportunities for stargazing and celestial contemplation.