Saturn will reach its annual bright opposition in late August 2023. Getty Images
August is a prime month for stargazing in the northern hemisphere. Unlike June and July, there is an abundance of darkness, and the warm evenings allow for extended outdoor observations. One of the highlights of August is the spectacular view of the Milky Way stretching across the southern sky after sunset. However, the most famous event to anticipate during this month is the annual Perseid meteor shower. If you have never witnessed the peak of this captivating phenomenon, read on for details on when and where to witness up to 100 shooting stars per hour under optimal sky conditions. Additionally, here are other celestial wonders to behold in the night sky during August 2023—a month that will feature not one, but two full moons:
1. Super Sturgeon Moon
When and where: Tuesday, August 1, rising in the east
Although this is the second “supermoon” of the year and the first of two in August, these occurrences are relatively common. While the moon will be closer to Earth, resulting in a technically larger and brighter appearance, the difference is not easily discernible. Nevertheless, August provides the perfect opportunity to witness a magnificent moonrise shortly after sunset. Simply look east to witness this breathtaking sight.
The Perseid meteor shower over the Saskatchewan Summer Star Party, on August 10, 2018, with an … [+] aurora as a bonus. (Photo by: Alan Dyer/VW Pics/UIG via Getty Images)Universal Images Group via Getty Images
2. Perseid Meteor Shower
When and where: Pre-dawn hours of Sunday, August 13, visible across the entire sky
The Perseid meteor shower is widely known, but have you truly experienced its splendor? The media often leads to overcrowded observatories and national parks, with visitors hoping to witness the advertised 100+ shooting stars per hour. Unfortunately, meteor showers do not adhere to this script. However, this year presents ideal conditions for the peak of the Perseid meteor shower, occurring just a few nights before a New Moon. The shower will reach its zenith just after dark on Saturday, August 12, but the pre-dawn hours of Sunday, August 13, will likely provide the best viewing opportunity. To optimize your experience, find the darkest location possible, such as an International Dark Sky Place or a spot with minimal light pollution, and settle in with a lawn chair, blanket, or perhaps even a hot tub to marvel at the stars above.
The Summer Triangle and meteors photographed on August 12, 2021, from Gruenstadt in Germany.getty
3. Summer Triangle
When and where: Any night in August, directly overhead
If there is one star pattern that should command your attention in the summer sky, it is the Summer Triangle. This simple, yet expansive, elongated triangle consists of three incredibly bright stars. During August, it hovers directly overhead, serving as an easy navigational aid in the evening. The three stars that comprise the triangle are Vega in Lyra, Deneb in Cygnus, and Altair in Aquila. Although this may sound complex, simply step outside after dark and look straight up to easily locate these celestial gems. The Summer Triangle also serves as a helpful guide to locating the Milky Way, as it runs between Deneb and Altair.
The Summer Triangle stars in the Milky Way through Cygnus, Lyra, and Aquila. The frame takes in the … [+] Milky Way from Cepheus to Ophiuchus.getty
4. Summer Milky Way
When and where: Any night in August, visible in the southern sky
While it is plausible to catch a glimpse of the bright center of our galaxy in the northern hemisphere between April and September, August tends to be a time when it truly captivates observers. This is largely due to it being a popular vacation month, with many people venturing to national parks and remote areas that showcase the majestic arc of our galaxy in the night sky. With substantial hours of darkness as sunset arrives earlier, the best views of the Milky Way can be enjoyed by looking towards the south after twilight has fully faded. Although the Milky Way is visible with the naked eye, the experience becomes even more unforgettable when scanning the dense star fields with a pair of binoculars.
Supermoon rising in YosemiteGetty
5. Super Blue Moon
When and where: Wednesday, August 30, rising in the east
No, the moon will not actually possess a blue hue! The second full moon of August 2023 occurs when the moon completes its orbit around the Earth in less than a calendar month. This phenomenon, known as a “blue moon,” only requires the first full moon to rise on the first or second day of the month, which occurred earlier in August. Consequently, the second full moon remains nameless, leading to the expression “once in a blue moon.” As an added bonus, this full moon will be the biggest, brightest, and most remarkable full moon of the entire year. It is surely worth stepping outside at moonrise to witness its majestic appearance on the eastern horizon.
Saturn through a small refractor telescope from Mannheim in Germany. getty
6. Saturn at Opposition
When and where: Sunday, August 27 (rising in the east, setting in the west)
Once a year, Earth aligns itself between the Sun and Saturn, along with the other outer planets. This event holds great significance for amateur astronomers, as it is the only time when Saturn appears 100% illuminated from our perspective. As a result, the latter half of August and the first half of September 2023 provide the best opportunity to observe Saturn at its biggest, brightest, and most impressive. However, to truly appreciate the intricate ring pattern surrounding Saturn, the use of any small telescope is recommended. May your skies remain clear and your gaze unwavering as you witness the wonders of the cosmos.
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Jessica Irvine is a tech enthusiast specializing in gadgets. From smart home devices to cutting-edge electronics, Jessica explores the world of consumer tech, offering readers comprehensive reviews, hands-on experiences, and expert insights into the coolest and most innovative gadgets on the market.
