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New York Post
3 days ago
- Science
- New York Post
How to see three overlapping meteor showers this week
The latter half of July is soaked in the celestial with an astounding three meteor showers lighting up the sky. Both the Alpha Capricornids and the Southern Delta Aquariids peak between July 29-30 and will be joined by the star fall of the Perseids. While the Perseids shower technically peaks around August 12th, the light pollution from the full Sturgeon Moon on August 9th makes the end of July a prime time to see a fat stack of star streaks. Triple meteor shower this week Advertisement 4 Most meteor showers, with the noted exception of the Geminids, originate from comets. MaxStock – A meteor shower occurs when the Earth's orbit intersects with the cloud of debris left by an asteroid or comet. When we collide with that cloud, these glorious remnants, AKA space trash, burn and fall due to the conditions of atmospheric entry. Their immolation creates the glowing trials and fireballs that call the eye up and the mind to awe. Most meteor showers, with the noted exception of the Geminids, originate from comets. The Alpha Capricornids Advertisement The Alpha Capricornids are the byproduct of the comet 169/NEAT that orbits the Sun once every 4.2 years. Their radiant point, or place in the sky from which they appear to originate, is, as the name implies, in the constellation of Capricorn. The Alpha Capricornids are not a prolific shower (they only produce five meteors per hour at their peak), but what they lack in number, they make up for in strength as they shine exceptionally bright against the night sky. This is particularly true during this year's peak, which will occur when the Moon is at minimal illumination, amplifying their visibility. The best time to peep this shower is in the evening, around 10:00 PM local time. The Southern Delta Aquariids 4 The radiant point og the Southern Delta Aquariids is in the Aquarius constellation. Sergey Kamshylin – Advertisement The Southern Delta Aquariids, active for around six weeks, from mid-July to late August, are born to burn from the short-period comet 96P/Macholz, which orbits the Sun once every 5.27 years. The radiant point of this shower is in the constellation Aquarius. This shower produces a fair share of meteors in its 48-hour peak window (somewhere between 20 to 25 per hour), but these streaks are faint with weak trails. However, in 2025, the peak coincides with the waxing crescent Moon, which sets before the radiation is high, meaning viewing conditions are better than usual, mainly between midnight and dawn. The Southern Delta Aquariids have been known to surprise viewers; in 1977 and 2003, the showers resulted in 'outbursts,' meaning a stronger show than usual is possible this week. Where can I see the Perseid meteor shower? 4 The Perseids have a radiant near the constellations of Perseus, Cassiopeia, and Camelopardalis. abderahim – Advertisement The powerful Perseid meteor shower comes from the comet formerly known as Swift-Tuttle, formally designated 109P/Swift–Tuttle, which orbits the Sun every 133 years. Among the finest sky shows in our solar system, the Perseids will be visible throughout the US and most of the Northern Hemisphere through August, but due to the phase of the Moon, this week offers prime sky conditions for viewing them. The Perseids have a radiant near the constellations of Perseus, Cassiopeia and Camelopardalis. Meteor shower July 29th: where and when to watch 4 You can use a sky scanning app like Star Walk to keep an eye out for when each constellation is due to rise and meteors are projected to paint the night. Tgad – Under clear skies and away from the maddening glare of light pollution, these showers will be visible to the naked eye. While many people will reach for a telescope or binoculars, it is better to take in the entirety of the sky rather than a small part. Dim the brightness on your phone and use a sky scanning app like Star Walk to keep an eye out for when each constellation is due to rise and meteors are projected to paint the night. Start your viewing around 10 P.M., and if you want to see as much of the show as possible, keep an eye on the sky until dawn breaks. Advertisement Look up, wish well, and feel the gravity of being both cosmic and creaturely, infinitesimal and infinite. Astrologer Reda Wigle researches and irreverently reports on planetary configurations and their effect on each zodiac sign. Her horoscopes integrate history, poetry, pop culture, and personal experience. To book a reading, visit her website.
USA Today
15-07-2025
- Science
- USA Today
Stargazers' delight: When and where to view July's major meteor showers.
It's time to look up at the night sky again. You'll soon be able to see two major meteor showers: ◾ The first shower: The Southern Delta Aquariids will be active from July 18 to Aug. 12. It's expected to peak on July 29-30, according to the American Meteor Society. ◾ The second shower: The Perseid meteor shower, the largest of the two, will be active from July 17 to Aug. 23. It's expected to peak on Aug. 12 and 13, but the viewing experience may be diminished by the moon's brightness. Here's where and when you can test your stargazing skills and catch a glimpse of these popular meteor showers Where to see Southern Delta Aquariid meteor shower Between July 18 and Aug. 12, you can see the Southern Delta Aquariids shower in the Northern Hemisphere by looking to the south. Under dark skies, the shower can have a maximum hourly rate of 15-20 meteors. It occurs at the beginning of the Perseids. Unable to view our graphics? Click here to see them. Comet of origin for Southern Delta Aquariids The source of the Southern Delta Aquariids is a comet, just like other meteor showers. Comet 96P/Machholz is thought to be the source of the shower. According to EarthSky, this comet was discovered in 1986 and is noted for leaving a track of debris as it orbits the sun. More: People reported earthquakes and fire in the sky. It was probably a meteor. Where to see the Perseid meteor shower The Perseid meteor shower is one of the most impressive in the Northern Hemisphere. It will be active between July 14 to Sept. 1 and is expected to peak on the evenings of Aug. 12 and 13. The bright waning gibbous moon may impede your view as it peaks. You have the best chance of viewing meteors right before dawn. That's because the Perseids' radiant point, which is where the meteors seem to come from, is at its highest in the sky, according to EarthSky. Rural areas often see between 50 and 75 meteors per hour, according to the American Meteor Society. To get a view of it, look toward the northeast, toward the constellation Perseus. Comet of origin for Perseids The Comet Swift-Tuttle is the source of the Perseid meteor shower. According to NASA, the comet was discovered by American astronomers Lewis Swift and Horace Tuttle in 1862. The space debris from the Swift-Tuttle comet interacts with our atmosphere to produce the well-known Perseid meteor shower. Which meteor shower has the brightest meteors? The most active and spectacular meteor showers are usually thought to be the Perseids and Geminids. The Geminids are active on the chilly days of December, while the Perseids peak on warm August nights, making them easier to observe. How to best view a meteor shower Tips on how to catch the best views of a meteor shower, according to EarthSky. ◾Location, location, location: Find a spot away from city lights, locate the radiant in the sky and get comfortable. ◾No lights: Your eyes will need to adjust to the darkness, which could take 15 to 20 minutes. ◾Dress for the weather: Bring blankets or a camping chair to make the viewing comfortable. ◾Relax: Chill and take in the evening's sky. Not all meteor showers are spectacular.
India.com
07-07-2025
- India.com
Looking For Magic? These 5 Hidden Clifftops Near Thiruvananthapuram Will Leave You Speechless!
The capital city of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram stands out through its picturesque scenery of natural greenery which combines with its peaceful backwaters and its lively cultural atmosphere. The expanding urban territory of the city conceals a collection of splendid natural wonders which contains several cliffside observation points suitable for star-gazing activities. These locations possess low light pollution and magnificent views which provide exclusive opportunities for both astronomy fans and nature enthusiasts to experience. Explore these seven isolated cliff top lookout areas close to Thiruvananthapuram where you can observe an infinite stretch of stars across the night sky. 1. Varkala Cliff Varkala Cliff which lies about 50 kilometers from Thiruvananthapurm stands as one of the most favored yet undisturbed locations for stargazing. Visitors get to see breathtaking Arabian Sea views by day that develop into a nighttime astronomical spectacle. This spot allows visitors to easily observe the Orion constellation and Scorpio constellation because no excessive artificial lighting exists. Guests can experience serenity through the audio experience of plunging waves against the rocky shoreline. 2. Kovalam Beach Hills The surrounding hills of Kovalam Beach create magnificent opportunities to watch stars while this beach remains well known for its picturesque golden sands and crystal clear waters. Traveling up the surrounding hillocks results in spectacular views extending across the entire horizon front. This high ground location offers limited light pollution so you can easily observe shooting stars as well as view Jupiter and Saturn through binoculars or telescopes. 3. Ponmudi Hills Approximately 60 kilometers northeast of Thiruvananthapuram you will discover the mountain destination known as Ponmudi that rests within the Western Ghats mountain range. People who look for stargazing spots benefit from deeper darkness created by Ponmudi Hills' elevated position and thick forest cover. Visitors on the serpentine roads to Ponmudi can admire breathtaking night sky views at various points. The dry and cool winter weather creates perfect meteor shower conditions for witnessing Geminids or Perseids which are best viewed during this time. 4. Aruvikkara Dam Area The Aruvikkara Dam positions itself at 16 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram to provide both water supply and elevated observation points that permit stargazing activities. Open fields together with rocky outcrops located at the dam area keep residential light pollution at a minimum. At this spot visitors experience an unreal sensation because the Milky Way becomes clearly visible during moonless nights. 5. Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary Lookout Points Those traveling 30 kilometers from Thiruvananthapuram will find the Neyyar Wildlife Sanctuary which showcases an abundance of natural species. The sanctuary combines wildlife observation with multiple viewpoint locations that function as superb locations to observe stars at night. This isolated location prevents excessive human contacts thus providing users unbroken sightlines across the heavenly skies. Look upward to detect the night sky patterns which reveal both Cassiopeia and the Big Dipper star groupings. Tips for Optimal Stargazing Experience People can optimize their stargazing trips by following these simple guidelines when visiting clifftop locations. Using nights without moonlight during a new moon phase enhances the visibility of distant stars and deep-sky objects since it reduces the strong lunar glare. Any combination of binoculars or telescopes will improve your ability to observe celestial features substantially. Wear proper clothing since elevated regions tend to experience cold evenings. Your eyes need a proper dark adaptation period so arrive before sunset to let them become used to the darkness. Environmental preservation needs our respect through free littering and strict adherence to local guidelines. Conclusion uçan which lies near both Western Ghats and coastal areas, creates exclusive observation opportunities for people who enjoy stargazing lokovoi. The iconic Varkala Cliff meets the peaceful heights of Agasthyakoodam Base Camp that give different experiences for people who wish to experience cosmic interaction. Extended travel outside the urban area enables viewers to overcome light pollution by granting them access to the universe's mesmerizing wonders. Take your equipment and join your companions for an adventure through the clifftop wonders neighboring Thiruvananthapuram because this starlit expedition awaits.
India.com
02-07-2025
- India.com
Underneath A Million Stars: Guwahati's Most Stunning Cliff Vistas
Guwahati functions as Northeast India's entryway where residents can access both cultural sites and natural locations with excellent conditions for watching stars. The region surrounding Guwahati provides lesser light pollution than big metropolitan areas thus revealing various concealed observational spots that astronomy fans can use to observe celestial phenomena. The following list identifies seven outstanding cliffside locations adjacent to Guwahati which provide excellent stargazing conditions through spectacular views and negligible artificial lighting interference. 1. Chandrakona Hills Chandrakona operates as a beautiful hill destination within a 60-kilometer distance from Guwahati within Meghalaya's Ri-Bhoi district. A high vantage point at this location offers visitors complete views across surrounding valley locations and the night sky above. On nights without moonlight Chandrakona Hills presents perfect conditions to watch Orion and the Milky Way due to its pollution-free environment and sparse urbanization. Visitors make their travel itinerary by starting with sightseeing in the daytime before moving on to evening stargazing. 2. Umiam Lake Viewpoints To the east of Guwahati stands Umiam Lake which draws a large number of tourists visiting Meghalaya. Visitors seek out cliffs near the lake to behold stunning combined views of the reservoir below and starry space above although water activities are what people primarily associate with the lake. Stargazing is optimal on elevated areas that possess low light pollution since these spots work well for telescope observation and camera usage. 3. Kamakhya Hilltop Located near the heart of the city at Nilachal Hill stands Kamakhya Temple which simultaneously serves the spiritual needs of worshippers and offers optimal stargazing conditions. Planetary observables become more distinct on high-altitude locations despite slight distortion by city luminescence. You will experience an exceptional viewpoint at dawn when the dimming eastern sky brightens up and starlight remains visible during early morning sessions. 4. Majuli Island Riverbanks The highest point of Majuli Island stands as the largest river island in the world because its position above the Brahmaputra River provides elevated riverfront scenery similar to cliff views. These secluded areas sit about 200 kilometers from Guwahati providing faultless skies since there is no artificial lighting present. The cold winter air provides exceptional visibility that lets viewers see meteor showers such as the Geminids and Leonids during night time. 5. Hajo Pancha Ratna Temple Area Located within 24 kilometers west of Guwahati, Hajo becomes famous for its historic temples as well as its spiritual importance. The hilly landscape demonstrates advantages for space observation activities. Pancha Ratna Temple stands atop a little hill where its location creates an isolated relaxation space that protects viewers from the activity of the town below. The location provides unobstructed views of Scorpius and Sagittarius which dominate the southern part of the night sky during clear conditions. Conclusion Near Guwahati you will discover a simple yet exciting opportunity to join nature and space exploration that provides inner peace. The combination of mist-covered Chandrakona hills with peaceful Majuli riverfronts provides beautiful contrasting experiences and distinct obstacles for each location. The night sky can be observed from multiple hidden cliff locations where astronomy enthusiasts and casual stargazers both discover the marvels of outer space. Your upcoming stargazing experience explained here requires equipment and friend participation to reveal magnificent universe insights about outer space alongside your personal inner journey.
India.com
30-06-2025
- Science
- India.com
Why Are Astrophotographers Flocking To Mumbai? The Truth Will Amaze You!
Mumbai stands as a metropolitan powerhouse where people know it as the 'City of Dreams' despite its international fame for culture plus Bollywood and economic success. The city of Mumbai maintains a unique status among people who enjoy watching the stars. Mumbai stands out from typical urban areas because it allows astronomy enthusiasts to observe the night sky despite its common water source pollution. The astronomical attractions of Mumbai emerge as clear as day even when considering its various hindrances. 1. The Presence of Amateur Astronomy Clubs Due to active amateur astronomy clubs in Mumbai an enthusiastic stargazer community flourishes throughout the city. Stargazing events and workshops and lectures are commonly organized by ASI and the Mumbai Astronomy Club along with other local groups throughout the city. These astronomical clubs give members access to telescopic equipment and expert mentorship during events that let them exchange their interests with fellow members. The strong community collaboration among space enthusiasts throughout Mumbai creates an excellent environment where new and experienced astronomers can study cosmic bodies. 2. Proximity to Dark Sky Locations Mumbai suffers seriously from light pollution but residents can quickly escape the city to access dark nighttime skies in the surrounding areas. Areas like Lonavala , Khandala , and Matheran —all within a few hours' drive—are popular among stargazers. The hill station Matheran functions as an outstanding site for observing cosmic phenomena because authorities designated it as a 'No Vehicle Zone' while reinforcing its status as a 'No Vehicle Zone.' Mumbai-based stargazers can easily reach starlit sky observatories from their home without venturing too far from the city. 3. Hosting Major Astronomical Events Native to the city is the regular occurrence of major astronomical events such as meteor showers together with eclipses and planetary alignments. During the Perseid Meteor Shower and Geminids events each year astronomy clubs in the area position telescopes for public viewing at both Juhu Beach and Sanjay Gandhi National Park. The gatherings at these astronomical events bring numerous visitors who feel enthusiastic about watching the stars together. These initiatives develop awareness about astronomy through outreach programs that stimulate younger people's fascination with the field. 4. Educational Institutions and Planetariums The combination of high-quality educational facilities and planetariums in Mumbai establishes this city as a significant astronomical center in the world. The Nehru Planetarium establishes itself as a major national astronomy facility by operating from its Worli location. The establishment provides interactive displays as well as sky presentations and educational programs that make astronomical concepts available to individuals of every age group. University research centers at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-B) and Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) perform advanced astrophysics studies that both offer vital academic materials and creative ideas to those interested in astronomy. 5. Technological Advancements and Accessibility The innovation of modern technology makes it simpler than usual to observe celestial objects. Residents in Mumbai can easily analyze space objects using budget telescope equipment and apps such as SkySafari and Stellarium for smartphone devices. Stargazers can use astronomy-oriented online platforms along with social media groups to build connections among themselves. Modern technology makes scientific discoveries accessible to all city residents by giving them the power to explore space discoveries. 6. Cultural Fascination with the Cosmos Astronomical study in India can be traced through thousands of years of history because both the Vedas and Jyotisha Shastra contain observations regarding celestial bodies. Today's Mumbai people continue to show great passion for celestial exploration. Religious celebrations like Navratri plus Diwali organize lunar-cycle-based rituals which blend with ancient astrological traditions felt strongly within Indian culture. Science and spirituality unite to form an excellent environment that fosters interest in astronomy study. 7. Diverse Weather Patterns Offering Unique Opportunities The rainy season in Mumbai can impair visibility from June through September but the city enjoys good stargazing conditions for the other months of the year. The winter season from October to February brings dry conditions which create excellent viewing conditions for observing planets and deep-sky objects as well as constellations under clear night skies. The coastal breeze functions as a natural tool to decrease the amount of turbulence in the atmosphere making the observations more precise. Conclusion Mumbai has developed a successful pathway for astronomical observation because it sustains communities dedicated to this field and allows locals to reach dark-sky observatories and universities which study space alongside local cultural organizations that promote cosmology. The city tackles light pollution effectively even though it remains a persistent issue yet its commitment to astronomy education and technological advancement allows people to witness cosmic marvels. The city of Mumbai provides many ways through which residents and visitors can observe celestial wonders in the vast starry night sky.
