November 2024 is packed with some amazing sky events, and there’s a little something for everyone to enjoy! This month’s night sky is putting on a show with everything from slow-moving fireballs in the Taurids meteor shower to the grand finale of the year’s Supermoons.
First up, we’ve got the Southern Taurids peaking on November 4-5, with those famous bright fireballs lighting up the sky. Then, on November 11, things get really interesting with a rare lunar occultation of Neptune—basically, the Moon will do a quick “hide and seek” with Neptune, briefly covering it up.
As the month goes on, you’ll also have the chance to catch Mercury, Uranus, the iconic Pleiades cluster, the high-speed Leonids meteor shower, and the beautiful Hyades star cluster. So grab a blanket, your telescope or binoculars, and get ready for some incredible nights under November’s star-filled sky.
9 Astronomical Events Lighting Up November's Night Sky
November 4-5: Southern Taurids Meteor Shower Peak
Get ready for some slow-moving fireballs lighting up the night as the Southern Taurids reach their peak! Known for their stunningly bright fireballs, this low-key but dramatic shower is the perfect way to kick off November’s lineup.
November 11: Lunar Occultation of Neptune
Here’s a rare one: the Moon will briefly pass in front of Neptune, hiding the distant blue planet from view if you’re in just the right spot. It’s like a cosmic game of "hide-and-seek" and a cool sight if you’re lucky enough to catch it!
November 11-12: Northern Taurids Meteor Shower Peak
Missed the Southern Taurids? No worries—the Northern Taurids peak just a week later and bring even more bright fireballs. Look up for those spectacular, bright meteors streaking across the sky.
November 15: Full Beaver Supermoon
November’s Full Beaver Moon is also the last Supermoon of 2024! It’ll rise bigger and brighter than usual, making it perfect for both moon-gazing and some dramatic lunar photography.
November 16: Mercury at Greatest Eastern Elongation
Here’s a great chance to spot elusive Mercury shining in the evening twilight as it reaches its farthest distance from the Sun. Catching Mercury is tricky, but this is one of the best times of year to spot our smallest planet.
November 16: Uranus at Opposition
Uranus will be at its brightest and closest to us for the year, making it visible all night in the constellation Taurus. Look for its blue-green glow with binoculars or a telescope to get a clear view.
November 17: Pleiades Cluster (M45) is Well Placed
The famous Pleiades cluster, or "Seven Sisters," will be ideally placed in the night sky. This bright, open star cluster is a classic—an iconic sight that looks amazing through binoculars or even just your eyes.
November 17-18: Leonids Meteor Shower Peak
Known for its fast, bright meteors, the Leonids will be zipping through the sky at speeds up to 43.5 miles per second. The Moon might wash out some of the fainter ones, but the Leonids’ bright speedsters will still be a show worth catching.
November 27: Hyades Cluster is Well Placed
Finish off the month with the V-shaped Hyades cluster in Taurus. It’s one of the brightest and closest star clusters to Earth, and it’s sitting right next to the bright star Aldebaran.
November 4th - 5th
Catch the Fireballs: Southern Taurids Meteor Shower Peaks
The Southern Taurids meteor shower is currently active, with its peak night arriving on November 4-5, 2024. While it’s not the highest-frequency shower, the Southern Taurids have something even more exciting: slow-moving fireballs! These bright meteors leave long-lasting trails and provide a memorable experience for any skywatcher.
Why the Southern Taurids are Worth Watching
With a zenithal hourly rate (ZHR) of about 5 meteors per hour, the Southern Taurids may not produce a huge number of meteors, but they’re known for their brilliant fireballs. Thanks to Comet 2P/Encke, the parent object of the Taurids, this meteor shower offers intense displays due to larger particles left in its trail. If you enjoy relaxed stargazing with the chance to see a few spectacular meteors, this is a shower you’ll want to catch.
Best Times and Locations for Viewing
The radiant point for the Southern Taurids is in Taurus at RA 03:35, Dec +14.4°. You don’t need to focus on the radiant specifically, as meteors can appear anywhere in the sky. However, starting around midnight—when the radiant is higher—offers an optimal chance to spot them.
Head to a location far from city lights for the best experience. Dark-sky parks, rural areas, or elevated spots are ideal. With the moon at only 11% full, you’ll have minimal interference, making it easier to spot these mesmerizing fireballs.
Tips for Viewing the Southern Taurids
- Get Comfortable: Bring a blanket, chair, or something to lie back on—meteor watching often involves long stretches of looking up, so comfort is key.
- Dress Warmly: Early November nights can be chilly, so layer up or bring a cozy sleeping bag if you’re planning to stay out for a while.
- Use Your Naked Eye: Meteor showers are best enjoyed without telescopes or binoculars. A wide field of vision helps you catch meteors streaking across different parts of the sky.
- Be Patient: Allow at least 20 minutes for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Relax and take in the quiet moments as you wait for a fireball to streak by.
Viewing Conditions and Expectations
The Southern Taurids travel slowly, at around 17.2 miles per second (27.7 km/sec), making them easier to catch than some of the faster meteors. When you spot one, take a moment to appreciate its slower, steady path—it’s not racing across the sky in a blink! While the shower won’t produce a high count of meteors, keep your eyes open for those stunning fireballs that make the Southern Taurids so unique.
November 11th
Watch Neptune Disappear: Rare Lunar Occultation
On November 11, get ready for a rare astronomical event: the lunar occultation of Neptune. Picture this—the Moon will pass directly in front of Neptune, briefly hiding the distant planet from view. For stargazers in eastern Canada, the contiguous United States, Greenland, Mexico, and parts of the Caribbean, this is a must-see celestial spectacle.
What to Expect During the Lunar Occultation of Neptune
As the 80% illuminated Moon aligns with Neptune, the planet will disappear behind the Moon’s unilluminated edge and reappear from its bright side. It’s like watching a cosmic game of hide-and-seek! Neptune’s faint blue dot (magnitude 7.8) is typically challenging to spot, but this occultation offers a unique view as it dips behind the Moon and reappears. The entire event will be brief but beautiful, giving you an opportunity to observe Neptune in a way that isn’t possible most nights.
Key Viewing Times and Locations
The exact viewing window varies based on location. Here’s the time frame for regions where this occultation will be visible:
| Country/Region | Time Span (UTC) |
|---|---|
| Canada | 02:00–03:43 |
| Contiguous United States | 01:16–03:34 |
| Greenland | 02:38–03:43 |
| Mexico | 00:57–02:37 |
| Cuba | 01:46–02:41 |
| Bahamas | 02:07–02:53 |
Since the Moon is relatively close to Earth, lunar occultations are only visible from specific locations. The Moon’s position in the sky can vary by up to two degrees, so only observers in the above regions will experience this rare alignment.
Tips for Viewing the Lunar Occultation of Neptune
- Use Binoculars or a Small Telescope: Neptune isn’t visible to the naked eye, so you’ll need equipment to spot it. A small telescope or a good pair of binoculars will help you see Neptune as a faint, bluish dot beside the Moon.
- Choose a Dark Spot: Head to an area with minimal light pollution for clearer visibility. A dark-sky location will give you the best view.
- Be Ready Early: Lunar occultations happen quickly, so set up and focus on the Moon a few minutes before your region’s start time to ensure you don’t miss Neptune’s “disappearing act.”
Where to Look in the Sky
During the occultation, the Moon will be in the constellation Pisces, with Neptune at Right Ascension 23h50m50s and Declination 2°24'S. Using a stargazing app or star chart can help you locate Pisces if you need a reference point. Neptune’s angular size of 0'02" makes it a tiny but distinctive dot next to the Moon, so keep a steady focus for the best view.
Viewing Conditions and Final Tips
With an 80% illuminated Moon so close to Neptune, focus on the dark side of the Moon to catch Neptune just before it disappears, then reappears on the bright side. Timing and a steady hand are everything, so find a comfortable position, keep your equipment ready, and enjoy the magic of seeing a distant planet briefly vanish behind the Moon.
November 11th - 12th
Bright Fireballs Ahead: Northern Taurids Peak
On the night of November 11-12, the Northern Taurids meteor shower will reach its peak, creating the perfect opportunity for skywatchers to catch some stunning fireballs. The Northern Taurids are much like their Southern counterpart, and with both showers active at this time, fireball activity often increases—making this a memorable night for stargazing.
Why the Northern Taurids are Worth Watching
While the Northern Taurids have a modest zenithal hourly rate (ZHR) of about 5 meteors per hour, they’re known for producing spectacular fireballs. Thanks to their parent object, Comet 2P/Encke, this shower brings slow-moving, brilliantly bright meteors. So, if you’re up for a relaxed evening of stargazing with the potential to see a few incredible fireballs, this is a meteor shower to put on your list.
Best Times and Locations for Viewing
The radiant point of the Northern Taurids is located in Taurus at RA 03:55, Dec +22.8°. No need to pinpoint this exact spot, as meteors can appear anywhere in the sky. Plan to head out around midnight for the best views, as this is when the radiant will be highest in the sky, with good visibility from late evening until early morning.
For the best experience, seek out a dark-sky location far from city lights—parks, rural areas, or even a wide-open field can make all the difference. The 79% full Moon may create some interference, so positioning yourself with the Moon at your back can help reduce glare and improve visibility.
Tips for Viewing the Northern Taurids
- Skip the Telescope: Meteor showers are best enjoyed with the naked eye. Using a telescope limits your field of vision, while the unaided eye allows you to spot meteors across the whole sky.
- Dress Warmly: November nights can be chilly, so layer up or bring a blanket to stay comfortable during your viewing session.
- Watch for Fireballs: The Northern Taurids’ slow speed (about 18 miles per second or 30 km/s) makes fireballs easier to spot and appreciate, as they move more slowly across the sky than faster meteors.
Viewing Conditions and Moonlight
On the night of the peak, the Moon will be 79% full, causing some interference with fainter meteors. Positioning yourself with the Moon behind you can help reduce its glare, giving your eyes a better chance to adjust to the darkness and spot meteors, especially the brighter fireballs.
Position Specifics
While the Northern Taurids don’t require a telescope, using a stargazing app to locate Taurus can help with orientation. The radiant point is in Taurus at RA 03:55, Dec +22.8°, meaning meteors will seem to originate from this area, though they can streak across any part of the sky.
November 15th
Final Supermoon of 2024: The Full Beaver Moon
Mark your calendars for November 15, 2024—the Full Beaver Supermoon will light up the night sky! As the final Supermoon of the year, this is a prime opportunity for skywatchers to experience a larger and brighter full Moon. Reaching peak illumination at 4:29 pm ET, it will rise shortly after sunset, offering an incredible view just as evening begins.
Why is November’s Full Moon Called the “Beaver Moon”?
The name “Beaver Moon” dates back centuries, rooted in Native American, Colonial American, and European folklore. November marked the time when beavers prepared for winter, storing food and taking shelter in their lodges. Early settlers also found this season ideal for trapping beavers for their thick winter fur. The name not only reflects nature’s rhythm but also honors this seasonal transition.
What Makes This a Supermoon?
A Supermoon occurs when the Moon’s orbit brings it closer to Earth than usual. On November 15, the Moon will be about 224,315 miles away, making it appear slightly larger and brighter than a typical full Moon. The difference may be subtle, but when near the horizon during moonrise, you’ll likely notice the increased size and brightness, making it an excellent night for moon-gazing.
Best Times and Locations for Viewing the Full Beaver Moon
- Peak Illumination: The Full Beaver Moon reaches its peak at 4:29 pm ET, but the best time to catch it will be just after sunset as it rises on the eastern horizon. Moonrise offers the most striking view, with the Moon appearing largest and brightest near the horizon.
- Ideal Viewing Spots: Look for a spot with an unobstructed view of the eastern horizon. Open areas like beaches, fields, and elevated spots provide the best visibility, allowing you to watch the Supermoon as it rises.
Viewing Tips and Equipment
- No Telescope Needed: The Full Beaver Moon is brilliant and easily visible to the naked eye. However, binoculars can help you see surface details, like craters and lunar plains, which will be slightly enhanced by the Supermoon’s size.
- Bring a Camera: This Supermoon is a perfect photo opportunity! Try using a tripod and a telephoto lens for sharp lunar shots. Capturing the Moon near the horizon with trees, buildings, or other foreground elements makes for especially scenic photos.
- Dress Warmly: November nights can be chilly, so bundle up with layers to stay comfortable during your viewing.
Position Specifics and Celestial Coordinates
When the Beaver Moon reaches full phase, it will be in the constellation Aries at Right Ascension 03h21m00s and Declination 22°24'N. With an angular size of about 33'00", this full Moon will be one of the largest-appearing of the year due to its proximity to Earth.
Fun Fact: What Happens at the Moment of Full Moon?
The exact moment of full Moon occurs when the Moon’s ecliptic longitude is exactly 180° away from the Sun’s—an alignment observed from Earth’s center. This is what makes the full Moon appear fully illuminated, allowing us to enjoy its maximum brightness.
November 16th
Spot Mercury in the Twilight: Greatest Eastern Elongation
Get ready for an exciting opportunity on November 16, 2024—Mercury will be at its greatest eastern elongation! This is one of the best times to spot the elusive planet in the evening sky, as it reaches its furthest separation from the Sun at 22°. Shining brightly at magnitude -0.3 in the constellation Ophiuchus, Mercury will be visible low in the southwestern sky after sunset.
What is Greatest Eastern Elongation?
Mercury is an inner planet, meaning it orbits closer to the Sun than Earth, making it often difficult to spot as it stays near the Sun’s glare. At greatest elongation, Mercury reaches its farthest distance from the Sun in our sky, creating a brief window when it becomes visible. These events repeat every few months, alternating between morning and evening skies depending on Mercury’s position relative to the Sun.
Why This is a Good Time to See Mercury
The days leading up to November 16 offer the best viewing conditions, as Mercury will be at peak separation from the Sun, appearing just above the horizon shortly after sunset. Following this date, Mercury will begin fading quickly as it moves towards inferior conjunction—when it passes between Earth and the Sun and becomes unobservable. So, catch it while you can!
Viewing Tips for Mercury at Greatest Elongation
- Time It Right: Start looking for Mercury shortly after sunset. It will be about 8° above the horizon by November 22, so plan your search as soon as the Sun dips below the horizon to spot it in the twilight.
- Look Low and to the Southwest: Mercury will be positioned in the southwestern sky. A clear, open view of the horizon, free from buildings or trees, will help you see it as it sits low in the sky.
- Use Binoculars First: While Mercury will be bright enough to spot with the naked eye, using binoculars can help you locate it more easily in twilight. Once found, try viewing it without binoculars to fully appreciate it against the darkening sky.
How Mercury’s Orbit Affects Viewing
Mercury’s elliptical orbit means its distance from the Sun varies, which impacts its position in the sky at each greatest elongation. On November 16, Mercury will be positioned in Ophiuchus at RA 17h00m20s and Dec 25°22'S, setting shortly after the Sun. This elongation is particularly favorable for southern hemisphere observers due to the ecliptic’s angle relative to the horizon, which places Mercury higher in the sky than in the northern hemisphere.
Why Mercury is Easier to See in the Southern Hemisphere
The angle of the ecliptic (the Sun’s apparent path across the sky) makes a difference in how high Mercury appears during its elongations. In the southern hemisphere, the ecliptic meets the horizon at a steeper angle in the evening, so Mercury sits higher in the sky. Northern hemisphere viewers will still be able to see Mercury, but it may be a bit lower, which could make it more challenging to spot.
November 16th
Discover Distant Uranus: Opposition Brings it Closest
On November 16, 2024, Uranus will reach opposition in the constellation Taurus—one of the best opportunities this year to catch a glimpse of this distant planet. During opposition, Uranus lies opposite the Sun in our sky, meaning it’s visible for nearly the entire night and shines at its brightest.
Why Uranus at Opposition is Special
When Uranus reaches opposition, Earth passes directly between it and the Sun, bringing Uranus to its closest approach to Earth, known as perigee. Although Uranus orbits much farther out than our inner planets (about 18.57 AU or 1.73 billion miles from Earth), opposition still enhances its brightness, making it easier to spot. Uranus will rise around sunset, stay visible all night, and reach its highest point in the sky at midnight local time—prime conditions for viewing.
When and Where to Look
Look for Uranus around midnight, when it’s highest in the sky and least affected by atmospheric turbulence. Use the constellation Taurus as your guide, which sits higher in the southeastern to southern sky as the night progresses. Uranus shines at magnitude 5.6, right at the edge of naked-eye visibility in dark-sky areas, but binoculars or a small telescopewill make finding it much easier.
- Position in the Sky: Uranus will be located at Right Ascension 03h30m20s and Declination 18°43'N, within the constellation Taurus. If you have a telescope with tracking capabilities, use these coordinates to pinpoint it.
Tips for Viewing Uranus
- Bring Binoculars or a Telescope: While Uranus may be visible to the naked eye from very dark locations, binoculars will help you locate its small, faint dot. With a telescope, you’ll see Uranus’s subtle blue-green disk, measuring about 3.8 arcseconds across.
- Find a Dark Sky Location: Viewing Uranus is best from an area with minimal light pollution. A dark-sky location will improve visibility and enhance your view of Uranus against the night sky.
- Orient Yourself with Taurus: Use a stargazing app to locate Taurus if needed. With the help of this constellation, you’ll be able to orient yourself and locate Uranus more easily.
Viewing Conditions and Challenges
Unlike closer planets, Uranus won’t show much detail even with a telescope, as its distance from Earth keeps its apparent size small. However, observing Uranus during opposition offers a unique chance to connect with a planet that orbits nearly 20 times farther from the Sun than Earth. The planet’s subtle blue-green hue is especially noticeable through binoculars or a telescope, adding a distinct and rewarding touch to your night of stargazing.
Quick Viewing Summary:
- Best Time to View: Midnight local time, when Uranus is highest in the sky
- Constellation: Taurus
- Magnitude: 5.6 (visible in dark skies or with binoculars)
- Angular Size: 3.8 arcseconds (small disk visible in telescopes)
November 17th
Explore the Seven Sisters: Pleiades Shines Bright
On November 17, 2024, the Pleiades star cluster (also known as M45) will be ideally positioned for evening stargazing! This bright and iconic open star cluster in Taurus is a favorite for both beginners and seasoned astronomers. Easily visible to the naked eye at magnitude 1.3, it’s a must-see for your November stargazing list.
Why the Pleiades is a Must-See Cluster
The Pleiades, often called the Seven Sisters, is one of the closest and brightest open star clusters in the night sky. This cluster’s stars are young and shine with a distinct blue hue that’s captivating to observe. Arranged in a compact, recognizable pattern, the Pleiades will reach their highest point in the sky around midnight local time on November 17, and will remain well-placed for evening viewing throughout winter, culminating about four minutes earlier each night.
How to Find the Pleiades in the Sky
To locate the Pleiades, look in the constellation Taurus at approximately Right Ascension 03h47m30s and Declination 24°06'N. If you’re familiar with Orion, use Orion’s Belt as a guide: follow the line of the belt upward and to the right, and you’ll spot the compact cluster of the Pleiades close by. This cluster’s bright stars make it easy to find, even without a telescope or binoculars.
Tips for Viewing the Pleiades
- Use Binoculars for the Best View: Although the Pleiades are visible to the naked eye, a pair of binoculars will enhance the experience, revealing more stars and bringing out the cluster’s subtle blue tones.
- Choose a Dark Sky Location: Observing from a dark location away from city lights will improve your view, allowing you to see more stars within the cluster and appreciate its contrast against the night sky.
- Ideal Timing: Plan your stargazing session for around midnight, when the Pleiades is at its highest and less affected by atmospheric turbulence near the horizon.
Viewing Conditions and Position Specifics
The Pleiades are best seen from the northern hemisphere but remain visible as far south as 45°S latitude. Its declination of 24°06'N means that northern stargazers have an optimal view, with the cluster appearing higher in the sky. If you’re observing on a clear night, you’ll be treated to the Pleiades’ sparkling beauty—an unforgettable sight.
Fun Fact: The Myth and History of the Pleiades
Named after the Seven Sisters from Greek mythology, the Pleiades has inspired myths and legends in various cultures worldwide. Some cultures view the cluster as a cosmic marker of seasonal change, using its position in the sky to time harvests and migrations.
November 17th - 18th
Catch the Swift Streaks of the Leonids Meteor Shower
On the night of November 17-18, 2024, the Leonids meteor shower will reach its peak, filling the sky with fast, bright meteors. Known for producing historic meteor storms, the Leonids are famous among stargazers, even if 2024 won’t bring a storm. This annual shower is still a fantastic opportunity to witness some of the year’s swiftest meteors lighting up the night sky.
What to Expect from the 2024 Leonids
The Leonids are famous for their speed, with meteors zipping across the sky at an impressive 43.5 miles per second (70 km/sec). This incredible speed often produces bright streaks and, occasionally, fireballs—adding extra excitement to the shower. The Leonids’ radiant point is located in the constellation Leo (hence the name) at RA 10:17, Dec +21.6°. While meteors will appear to radiate from Leo, they can streak across any part of the sky, so keep your eyes open!
In 2024, a 94% full waning gibbous Moon will rise during the late evening, creating some interference with visibility. Under ideal conditions, the zenithal hourly rate (ZHR) for the Leonids is around 15 meteors per hour, but moonlight will likely wash out fainter meteors, making the brighter ones the main attraction.
Tips for Viewing the Leonids
- Go Dark and Find Clear Skies: With the bright Moon in the sky, finding a dark-sky location away from city lights can help. Although moonlight will be a factor, choosing a dark spot maximizes your chances of seeing more meteors.
- Look Away from the Moon: Position yourself so the Moon is behind you or blocked by trees or buildings. Avoiding the Moon’s glare helps your eyes adjust to the darkness and improves your chances of spotting meteors.
- No Telescope Needed: Meteor showers are best viewed with the naked eye. A wide field of vision lets you catch meteors streaking across the sky from different angles, so skip the telescope for this event.
When and Where to Watch
The best time to watch the Leonids is after midnight, when the radiant in Leo will be higher in the sky. With the Moon rising in the late evening, heading out around midnight to early morning gives you the best chance of spotting meteors before the Moon reaches its highest and brightest point.
Viewing Conditions and Challenges
While the bright Moon may reduce visibility, the Leonids’ fast-moving and often bright meteors make it worth stepping outside for a look. The parent object of the Leonids, comet 55P/Tempel-Tuttle, leaves behind a trail of debris that Earth passes through each November, creating this yearly meteor shower. Although we’re not expecting any dense debris clouds this year, the Leonids’ bright meteors and occasional fireballs add to the thrill of this classic meteor shower.
Fun Fact: Historic Leonid Meteor Storms
The Leonids are known for producing meteor storms in the past, with unforgettable displays in 1833, 1966, 1999, and 2001. During these outbursts, meteors rained down at rates of up to thousands per hour, giving spectators an incredible celestial show. While storms aren’t expected until around 2099, the Leonids still offer the chance to witness some of the night sky’s brightest meteors.
November 27th
Spot the V-Shaped Hyades Cluster: Perfectly Positioned
Mark your calendar for November 27, 2024—the Hyades star cluster (Collinder 50) will be ideally placed for evening observation! Located in the constellation Taurus, this bright and nearby open star cluster is one of the best celestial sights of late autumn. With its distinctive V-shape and easy visibility to the naked eye at magnitude 1.0, the Hyades is a stunning cluster that adds depth and beauty to the night sky.
Why the Hyades Cluster is a Must-See
The Hyades is not only one of the closest open clusters to Earth but also one of the oldest, with stars that span a wide area in the sky. Its stars are arranged in a recognizable V-pattern that makes it easy to locate, especially since it’s close to the bright orange star Aldebaran. However, Aldebaran isn’t actually part of the cluster; it simply appears nearby in the sky. Stargazing in late November wouldn’t be complete without admiring this cluster that’s rich in history and beauty.
Best Times and Locations for Viewing the Hyades
On November 27, the Hyades cluster will be highest in the sky around midnight local time, making this the ideal time to view it. Positioned at Right Ascension 04h27m00s and Declination 16°00'N, the Hyades is best seen from the northern hemisphere but is visible as far south as 54°S latitude. This wide visibility range means most stargazers will have a great view of this cluster in the evening hours.
Tips for Viewing the Hyades Cluster
- Use Binoculars for the Best View: While the Hyades are visible to the naked eye, binoculars or a small telescope will enhance your experience, allowing you to see more stars within the cluster and the subtle details in its V-shape.
- Choose a Dark Sky Location: For an even better view, find a dark location away from city lights. While the Hyades are bright enough to see from most locations, a darker environment will reveal more stars in the cluster.
- Locate Aldebaran in Taurus: The Hyades sit near the bright star Aldebaran in Taurus. Aldebaran’s distinctive orange hue can guide you to the cluster, which will appear just to its side.
Why the Hyades is Special in November
On November 27, the Hyades will reach its highest point around midnight. In the weeks following, it will culminate four minutes earlier each night, remaining well-placed for evening viewing throughout winter. This extended visibility makes it a perfect addition to your stargazing plans, with clear positioning that allows for easy observation on multiple nights.
Fun Fact: The Ancient Connection of the Hyades
The Hyades has been known since ancient times and has a rich mythological background. In Greek mythology, the Hyades were said to be half-sisters of the Pleiades, and their name comes from the Greek word for “rain,” as their rising was associated with the start of the rainy season. With this storied past, the Hyades is as much a cultural treasure as it is an astronomical one.