Spring is gearing up to offer skygazers a fantastic opportunity to witness a variety of celestial events, including auroras, meteor showers, and both lunar and solar eclipses this year. It’s a great time to keep an eye on the skies in anticipation of exciting displays throughout March, April, and May.
Meteorologists declare the beginning of spring on 1 March, while astronomers mark the onset of the season around the spring equinox, which falls on 20 March this year. This equinox signifies the Earth’s midpoint in its orbit between the nearest and farthest points from the Sun, a significant astronomical event that can vary slightly due to the Earth’s orbit not following an exact timeframe.
One notable celestial sight to behold during spring is the Spring Triangle, a grouping of three of the brightest stars visible in the southern portion of the sky. Astronomer Anna Gammon-Ross from the Royal Observatory Greenwich highlights that these stars belong to different constellations, with identifying characteristics such as Leo the Lion resembling a mouse, Virgo appearing as a square with wobbly appendages, and Botez forming part of a constellation known as a hunter or herdsman.
For skywatchers looking forward to specific events, a lunar eclipse is set to occur on 14 March, coinciding with a full Moon passing through the Earth’s shadow, resulting in a darkened appearance. The Americas are predicted to have optimal viewing conditions for this total lunar eclipse, especially during their overnight hours in darker skies. Meanwhile, a partial solar eclipse is scheduled for 29 March primarily visible in the Northern Hemisphere, where the Moon will partially obstruct the view of the Sun, covering approximately a third of its surface.
Furthermore, the Lyrids meteor shower is expected to peak on 22 April, with the shower being visible on the nights surrounding this date. According to Anna Gammon-Ross, individuals worldwide can witness up to 100 meteors per hour during the peak nights of the Lyrids meteor shower. Additionally, heightened solar activity suggests a higher likelihood of auroras appearing, making it an exciting time for sky enthusiasts. Remember to check local weather forecasts and sunset times for optimal viewing conditions of these celestial wonders
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