We are already in May of 2024, and it’s been a great year for astronomy enthusiasts to view space. So far, the world has seen a solar eclipse and a bunch of meteor showers, and surprisingly, this month is no different. Plenty of enticing events will occur in the astronomical calendar in May 2024. So, let’s look at some of the greatest spectacles of the night the universe offers.
Astronomical Calendar May 2024
An astronomical calendar helps keep track of the several astronomical events taking place in the universe. Thousands of space enthusiasts and astrophotographers use the calendar to capture different events every year. Furthermore, some of the following phenomena are easily watchable by the casual audience.
Earthshine or Da Vinci Glow (May 11-12)
When the Sun’s light reflected by Earth falls on the Moon, Earth shines. It gives the Moon a surreal brightness visible at dawn or after midnight. Moreover, it was first reported by the great Leonardo Da Vinci and was named after him.
Flower Moon May 23
The flower moon is the first full Moon of May, a symbol of spring in some cultures. The large, bright, natural satellite represents the bloom of different flowers in the Northern Hemisphere. So, if you’re an astro photographer, don’t miss the opportunity to showcase your creativity by capturing the unique phenomenon in the sky.
Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower (May 6,7)
The debris from comets formulates the small flashes of light in the sky—these small meteors burn up before reaching the surface of Earth. The Eta Aquarids meteor shower comes from the direction of the constellation Aquarius and will be visible in May’s night sky.
Mercury at Greatest Western Elongation (May 9)
The most minor planet in the solar system is so close to the Sun that it’s not easily visible in the glare. However, during the most significant western elongation, it’s far from the Sun and can be seen in the sky. This phenomenon only happens a few times in a calendar year, so capture it.
Honourable Mentions for Astronomical Calendar May 2024
The article only covers some of the most notable astronomical events. And there are plenty left that are worth a line or two. So, below are some honourable mentions when discussing the cosmological calendar of May 2024.
- New Moon
- Planets of Solar System
- Partial Lunar Eclipse (May 25, 2024)
- Comets
- Asteroids
Final Thoughts
In May 2024, the astronomical calendar offers numerous enticing events, including the Earthshine, Flower Moon, Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower, and Mercury at Greatest Western Elongation.
These events are a testament to the universe’s beauty and fascination and are often captured by space enthusiasts and astro photographers. Other notable events include the New Moon, Planets of the Solar System, Partial Lunar Eclipse, Comets, and Asteroids.
Therefore, the astronomical calendar of May 2024 sheds some light on some of the best events. So, don’t miss out on the opportunity the universe offers.
“We are impossibility in an impossible universe.”
Ray Bradbury
Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs)
What are the astronomical events in 2024?
The notable astronomical events in May 2024 are:
- Flower moon
- Pallas at Opposition
- Earthshine
- Eta Aquarids Meteor Shower
- Lunar Occultation of Antares
What is the most enormous meteor shower in 2024?
The Perseid meteor shower will be the biggest in 2024 and visible in mid-August.
What happens in the sky in April 2024?
The different phenomena taking place in April 2024 are:
- Total solar eclipse
- Devil Comet
- Moon and Mars Conjunction
What is an astronomical calendar?
An astronomical calendar is a date chart that tracks different astronomical phenomena.
