Toronto night sky in July reveals a celestial showcase; meteor shower and full Buck Moon
This July 2024, skywatchers in Toronto can look forward to captivating celestial events. From a spectacular full Buck moon to the Delta Aquarid Meteor Shower, the night sky promises plenty of visual treats for both seasoned astronomers and casual stargazers alike.
The Buck Moon: July 21st
One of July’s celestial calendar highlights is the Buck Moon, set to grace the night sky on July 21st. This full moon is named after the new antlers that bucks grow during this period. It will cast a warm, inviting glow over the summer landscape, making it an ideal time to step outside and enjoy the moonlit night.
Earthshine Nights: July 3rd and 4th
Early July will deliver the enchanting phenomenon of “Earthshine Nights” on the 3rd and 4th. During these nights, the crescent moon will be softly illuminated by sunlight reflected from Earth, creating a delicate and beautiful glow on the unlit portion of the moon. This subtle display is a beautiful reminder of the interconnectedness of our planet and its satellite.
The Delta Aquarid Meteor Shower: July 28th
For those seeking a bit more excitement, the Delta Aquarid meteor shower is the event to watch later in the month! Peaking on the night of July 28th, this meteor shower is known for its consistent flow of meteors, making it a reliable favourite among stargazers. The best viewing time is after midnight, in a dark sky far from city lights.
Saturn’s Rings in Full View
July also offers a fantastic opportunity to observe Saturn and its magnificent rings. The planet will be well-placed for observation, making it visible for most of the night and providing excellent views. Even a small telescope will reveal the stunning rings, a sight that never fails to amaze.
Venus at Its Brightest: July 12th
On July 12th, Venus will reach its greatest eastern elongation, making it shine brilliantly in the evening sky. Often referred to as the “Evening Star,” Venus will be exceptionally bright and easy to spot just after sunset. It’s a perfect chance to admire our closest planetary neighbour in all its glory.
Mercury’s Morning Show: July 25th
Towards the end of the month, Mercury will make a notable appearance in the pre-dawn sky. On July 25th, the elusive planet will reach its greatest western elongation, offering a rare opportunity to catch a glimpse of it at its highest point above the horizon before sunrise. It’s an event worth waking up early for, especially with a pair of binoculars.
Best Places in Toronto to look at the stars and planets
- High Park: This expansive park offers plenty of open spaces and low light pollution, making it a great spot for stargazing.
- Tommy Thompson Park: Located on the Leslie Street Spit, this park provides a relatively dark environment close to the city, perfect for watching meteor showers and other celestial events.
- Riverdale Park East: With a high vantage point and clear views of the sky, this park is a favourite among local astronomers.
- Scarborough Bluffs: The elevated areas and proximity to Lake Ontario provide stunning views of the horizon, ideal for observing planets like Venus and Mercury.
- David Dunlap Observatory: For a more structured stargazing experience, the observatory offers public viewing nights and is equipped with a large telescope to enhance your viewing experience.
Wrapping Up
Whether you’re captivated by the full moon, intrigued by meteor showers, or eager to observe some of the planets at their best, July 2024 provides a wealth of astronomical phenomena to enjoy. These celestial events not only highlight the beauty and mystery of our universe but also offer moments of reflection and wonder. So, mark your calendars and prepare to be amazed by the wonders unfolding in the Toronto night sky this July.
by Ryan Howse-Hackl
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