Toronto night sky in May: Flower Moon, Mercury rising & a meteor shower

If you want to go stargazing in Toronto what can you expect to see this month?

This May, sky watchers in Toronto can look forward to a special celestial treat — the Flower Moon, set to illuminate the spring night on May 23rd. Known as the Flower Moon due to its coinciding with the bloom of numerous flowers in the Northern Hemisphere, this full moon promises to be a sight worth looking out for in Toronto’s night sky.

What time will the full moon rise over Toronto in May

Look to the southeast at 9:27 pm to see the full Flower Moon magnificently rise over Toronto on the 23rd of May, .

Earthshine mornings

As we gaze at the brilliant night sky this month, there’s more to look forward to beyond the full moon. Early May begins with the “Earthshine Mornings” on the 4th and 5th, where the unlit part of the waning crescent moon glows softly due to sunlight reflected from Earth. It’s a subtle phenomenon but a beautiful reminder of the interaction between our planet and the moon.

Eta Aquarid meteor shower

If you are looking for something a little more exciting, the Eta Aquarid meteor shower is your next date with the skies. Peaking during the night of May 5th and in the morning of May 6th, this meteor shower originates from the famous Halley’s Comet and is best viewed in the early dark, pre-dawn hours. With up to 30 meteors per hour, it’s a celestial spectacle not to be missed.

Mercury rising

Additionally, the month provides a prime opportunity to spot Mercury at the peak of its orbit on May 9th. And no it’s not in retrograde right now so something else might be bumming you out. This is the best time to see the elusive distant planet as it reaches its highest point above the horizon in the morning sky.

So, whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a casual stargazer, May offers a decent variety of astronomical phenomena that highlight the dynamic and ever-changing canvas of our universe. Don’t miss out on these celestial events that remind us of the wonders that unfold in the Toronto night sky.

by Ryan Howse-Hackl

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