The Orionid meteor shower will soon light up the night sky once again.
This year’s event is anticipated to be particularly stunning, as the peak of the Orionid meteor shower in 2025 aligns with the new moon night, making the sky notably darker.
You don’t require any special gear to observe meteor showers, making it an excellent introduction to stargazing. All you need are your eyes and a clear, dark sky.
Here’s all the essential information to enhance your viewing experience.
When is the Orionid meteor shower tonight?
The 2025 Orionid meteor shower will reach its peak during the night of October 21-22 in the US and UK, but you can catch glimpses of it from October to November.
This meteor shower is relatively prominent. Under optimal conditions, you might see 10 to 20 meteors each hour, though realistically you may spot one roughly every 10 minutes.
What makes the 2025 Orionids especially remarkable is the coincidence with the new moon, allowing for darker skies and visibility of fainter meteors.
Meteors can be seen throughout the night, but many fade below the horizon in the evening. For a better view, wait until after midnight when they will be higher in the sky.
However, the key factor in your viewing experience will be the weather. Keep an eye on the forecast for any breaks in the cloud cover. Even if conditions aren’t ideal, you might catch some meteors if the sky is partly clear.
Don’t fret if the weather doesn’t seem promising on the peak night. You should still see plenty of meteors around October 21st.
How can you see the Orionid meteor shower in 2025?
Meteor showers provide a wonderful shared experience—invite your friends and family! – Credit: Getty
The ideal way to observe a meteor shower is to venture to the darkest location available. Escaping the light pollution of urban areas is your best bet (ensure you have permission and stay in a safe area after dark).
If you can’t get out of the city, try to avoid any direct light sources, whether that’s at your local park or a corner of your garden shielded from streetlights by a fence.
Instead of focusing on one specific direction, aim to take in as much of the sky as possible. Sun loungers make it comfortable to lie back and gaze upwards without straining your neck. Remember to dress warmly and bring along some snacks.
Leave your telescope at home; for meteor watching, your eyes are the best tool you have.
Give your eyes about 20 minutes to adjust to the darkness. Be cautious—any brief exposure to bright light, including your phone, can reset this adjustment.
Now, keep looking up and be patient. Eventually, you should start to see meteors streaking across the sky.
What is a meteor shower?
The Orionid meteor shower is a result of Halley’s Comet, which orbits the inner Solar System approximately every 75 years (its next visit is slated for 2061). As the comet passes, it leaves behind a trail of dust and debris.
Every year, Earth passes through this debris stream, causing tiny particles to collide with our atmosphere at incredible speeds of 70 km (41 miles) per second. This collision heats up the air, creating bright flashes of light known as meteors or shooting stars.
Why are they called the Orionid meteor shower?
Orion is one of the brightest constellations visible in the northern sky – Credit: Getty
The shower derives its name from the fact that all meteors appear to radiate from the constellation Orion.
If you track an Orionid meteor’s path, you’ll find it leads back to this particular constellation.
Orion can be easily recognized by the three bright stars that form its well-known belt in the southern sky. If you’re unsure of what to look for, consider downloading a stargazing or astronomy app to assist you.
Additionally, you might spot meteors that do not originate from the Orion constellation. If so, congratulations! You’ve encountered a stray meteor that coincidentally entered Earth’s atmosphere during the shower.
Do different observers experience similar neural activity in response to the same color? Does color produce distinct response patterns in specific brain areas? To explore these inquiries, researchers at the University of Tübingen utilized existing knowledge of color responses from various observers’ brains to predict the colors an individual is perceiving based on their brain activity. By estimating general brain commonality and responding to achromatic, spatial stimuli, the authors successfully aligned disparate brain responses within a common response framework linked to the retina. In this framework, derived independently of specific color responses, the perceived color can be decoded across individuals, revealing distinct spatial color biases between regions.
Using a sample of male and female volunteers, Michael M. Bannert & Andreas Bartels examined whether spatial color biases are shared among human observers and whether these biases differ among various regions. Image credit: Vat Loai.
Employing functional MRI scans, researchers Michael Banert and Andreas Bartels from the University of Tübingen captured images of subjects’ brains while they viewed visual stimuli, identifying various signals related to red, green, and yellow colors.
Remarkably, the patterns of brain activity appeared similar among subjects who had not participated previously. This suggests that the colors perceived can be accurately predicted by comparing them to the brain images of other participants.
The representation of color in the brain proves to be much more consistent than previously believed.
While it was already feasible to identify the colors an individual observed using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), this was only applicable to the same brain.
“We aimed to investigate whether similar colors are encoded across different brains,” Dr. Banert stated.
“In other words, if we only have neuronal color signals from another person’s brain, can we predict the colors they’re perceiving?”
“It’s well established that different brains exhibit roughly similar functional structures.”
“For instance, specific areas are more active when viewing faces, bodies, or simply colors.”
During the color experiment, researchers employed specific classification algorithms to analyze fMRI data, systematically differentiating signals originating from the brains of various groups of individuals by color.
Subsequently, data from new subjects were utilized to ascertain the colors they were perceiving using neuronal signals.
To frame each brain’s orientation, scientists spatially mapped how they responded to stimuli at different locations within their visual field using fMRI measurements.
“At this stage, we did not incorporate colors to avoid any bias in our results—only black and white patterns,” Professor Bartels explained.
“By simply merging this mapping data with color information from another person’s brain, we ensured we correctly identified the ‘new’ brain activity related to what the person was observing at that moment.”
“I was surprised to discover that even subtle variations in individual colors show remarkable similarity across brain activity patterns in specific visual processing regions, something previously unknown.”
Spatial color coding in the brain is domain-specific and organized consistently among individuals.
“There must be functional or evolutionary factors contributing to this uniform development, but further clarification is needed,” the authors noted.
The study was published this week in the Journal of Neuroscience.
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Michael M. Bannert and Andreas Bartels. Large-scale color biases in the functional architecture of the retina are domain-specific and shared throughout the human brain. Journal of Neuroscience Published online on September 8th, 2025. doi: 10.1523/jneurosci.2717-20.2025
Halley’s Comet makes its appearance near Earth every 75 years. Nevertheless, the remnants of this comet give rise to two significant meteor showers annually: the Eta Aquarids.
During this meteor shower, the night sky lights up as Earth travels through the paths left by various famous comets, according to Shauna Edson of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.
NASA’s Bill Cook describes the Eta Aquarids as “very fast meteors.”
On the peak night, which falls on Tuesday morning, we anticipate witnessing 10-15 meteors per hour under optimal viewing conditions, Cook noted.
However, with the moon approximately two-thirds full, visibility may be diminished.
The viewing period will extend until May 28th. For more information about the Eta Aquarids and other meteor showers, check out this meteor shower guide.
What is a Meteor Shower?
As Earth orbits the Sun, it encounters bits left behind by comets and sometimes asteroids several times a year. The Eta Aquarids originate from fragments of Halley’s Comet.
When these fast-moving space rocks enter Earth’s atmosphere, they experience friction with the air, causing them to heat up and eventually incinerate.
This process can create a brief glow in the surrounding air, leaving a luminous tail that marks the path of a “shooting star.”
You don’t need any special gear to view the meteor showers that light up the sky each year, just find a dark spot away from city lights.
How to View the Meteor Shower
The optimal time for observing meteor showers is early when the moon is positioned low in the sky.
The primary challenges to clear visibility are bright moonlight and artificial lights. A cloudless night with a faint moon provides the best conditions.
Remember to keep looking up. If you haven’t been distracted by your phone, your eyes will be well-adapted to spot a shooting star.
When Will the Next Meteor Shower Be?
The next major meteor shower, the South Delta Aquarids, will peak in late July.
Prepare yourself with a coat, warm socks, and a chair to witness the spectacle of the night sky. The Geminid meteor shower is approaching, offering a breathtaking display of colorful meteors painting the heavens. While this year may not be as spectacular as the previous one, the shooting stars are still worth observing.
So, when will the 2024 Geminid meteor shower occur? The peak is set for the late hours of Friday, December 13th, continuing into the early hours of Saturday, December 14th. This prime time presents the best opportunity to witness these shooting stars, visible to the naked eye with their vivid hues.
According to Dr. Shyam Balaji, a researcher in astroparticle physics and cosmology at King’s College London, the optimal viewing time is around 2 a.m. local time. However, the meteor shower can be observed from the evening onwards. The shower will remain active from December 4th to December 20th, allowing for extended viewing opportunities.
No special equipment is needed to enjoy the meteor shower, just warm clothing, a sense of adventure, and your eyes to gaze at the spectacle.
However, with a full moon on Sunday, some of the fainter meteors may be obscured, as noted by Professor Don Polacco, an astrophysicist at the University of Warwick.
Despite suboptimal conditions this year, the Geminid meteor shower is always worth witnessing. So, if weather permits, grab your warm attire, settle into your chair early Saturday morning, and behold the wonder above.
Looking up to observe the meteor shower, locate the constellation Gemini, the radiant point of the shower. Find Orion the Hunter and then spot Castor and Pollux above and to the left for a guide to Gemini’s location in the sky.
The Geminid meteor shower has been known to produce 120 to 150 meteors per hour during its peak, offering a dazzling display of bright meteors streaking across the sky.
These meteors exhibit varying colors, from white, yellow, and green to red, orange, and blue, depending on the metals present in the debris and their interaction with Earth’s atmosphere.
The Geminid meteor shower was particularly bright in 2023 – Credit: NurPhoto / Contributor
The Geminid meteor shower is unique as it originates from asteroid 3200 Phaethon, referred to as a “rocky comet.” These denser fragments result in a more spectacular show than typical comet debris. The close proximity of the shower’s orbit to the Sun also adds to its distinctive qualities.
Get ready to witness the magic of the 2024 Geminid meteor shower and enjoy the celestial spectacle it has to offer.
When it comes to meteor showers, the Leonids are known as one of the best. Famous for its fast and bright fireball meteors, the Leonid meteor shower aims to put on an impressive show.
And in unusual circumstances, the shower can turn into a full-fledged storm, and thousands of meteors can pass in front of you in an hour. Although it is not expected to reach storm-level conditions this year, it is still a sight to behold. Additionally, the Leonid meteor shower can be seen with the naked eye, so anyone can observe it without the need for binoculars or a telescope.
So when should you look up to the sky? And what should you expect from this year’s Leonid meteor shower? We’ve got all the important information below.
When is the Leonid meteor shower?
The 2024 Leonid meteor shower will reach its peak on the night of November 17-18. During this period, 10 to 15 meteors are expected to cross the night sky per hour.
Shooting star activity is expected to peak during this period, but meteors from the Leonid meteor shower are expected to be visible until November 30th.
For the best viewing, you need to find a spot with dark skies and good visibility. It also helps avoid light pollution in big cities and towns. Light from the last supermoon of the year, November’s Beaver Moon, which peaks on Nov. 15, could obstruct visibility.
Where should you look to see the Leonid meteor shower?
Pinpointing the source of the shower will give you better visibility. The Leonid meteor shower’s name comes from its constellation, Leo, where it is believed to have originated. More specifically, the Leonid meteor shower originates from a star pattern called the Sickle within the constellation Leonid.
To find the sickle, first find Ursa Major’s plow. This is a distinctive signpost to many astronomical spots (we have a complete guide on how to find it).
Look to the edge of the pot in “The Plow” to find two bright stars: Dubhe and Merek. If you draw an imaginary line between the two, going in the opposite direction, it will point in the direction of Polaris, Polaris, and the Sickle of Leo.
You don’t need to worry too much about tracking this exact location. Meteors cover most of the sky, so your best bet is to see as much of the sky as possible.
The best way to see as much of the sky as possible is to lie on your back and look up, but it’s November and nighttime temperatures in places like the UK can be below freezing, so it’s best to dress warmly or bring warm clothing. Please wear it. Find a comfortable place to cover yourself with a blanket or sleeping bag. Be patient and stay a while to let your eyes adjust to the darkness and have the best chance of catching the Leonid meteor shower.
Where did the Leonid meteor shower come from?
Meteor showers occur when the Earth, in its orbit around the sun, passes through regions of space filled with debris left behind by comets and asteroids.
In this case, the culprit is Comet Tempel-Tuttle. It is a relatively small comet that was discovered twice in separate events. It was first created by Ernst Tempel in 1865 and then by Horace Tuttle in 1866.
How many Leonid meteors can we see?
The exact number of meteors is difficult to determine. The number changes each year, but the average number of meteors is about 15 per hour. In some years, this value can be even higher, especially if there is a meteor storm.
Approximately every 33 years, a shower turns into a storm. This classification is reached when more than 1,000 meteors occur per hour. Back in 1966, viewers experienced the unique Leonids meteor shower, where thousands of meteors appeared in just 15 minutes.
The last Leonid storm occurred in 2002, so a storm in 2024 is unlikely.
These fireballs have long trails that are blue and greenish. Meteors can be missed, but they leave a long vapor train in the sky that looks like a smoke ring for several minutes.
The Leonid meteor shower is also fast, traveling at 44 miles per second (71 kilometers per second). These are considered some of the fastest meteors we can see.
The annual Perseid meteor shower will peak between Sunday night and dawn on Monday, giving skywatchers around the world the chance to enjoy one of the most spectacular shooting star shows of the year.
The Perseid meteor shower is usually one of the most anticipated stargazing events of the year due to the high incidence of shooting stars. If the weather is good, you may be able to see up to 100 meteors per hour from a dark location.
“Not only is this shower rich in bright meteors and fireballs (the most so far in the world, in fact), it also peaks when it's still warm and comfortable in mid-August,” says Bill Cook, director of the Meteor Environment Office at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama. NASA said in a blog post.
Experts predict that conditions will be favorable for this year's meteor show, especially since the moon will set around 11:30 p.m. local time, meaning bright moonlight will not obscure the shooting stars.
If the weather is good, it's best to choose an unobstructed viewing location under the darkest possible sky, away from city lights and other light pollution.
In the Northern Hemisphere, stargazing is best done between midnight and dawn. NASA recommends giving your eyes about 45 minutes to adjust to the darkness and avoiding looking at bright screens, such as cell phones.
While the peak of the meteor shower is when you'll have the highest chance of seeing meteors, the Perseids have been visible for several weeks and should continue to be visible after this weekend. The meteor shower occurs annually from mid-July to late August.
This occurs as Earth passes through a cloud of dust particles and debris left behind by a comet known as 109P/Swift-Tuttle, which was discovered in 1862. The light streaks are caused when the debris impacts the atmosphere, vaporizes, and leaves a bright trail as it disintegrates.
The Perseid meteor shower, one of the most stunning meteor showers in 2024, is currently in full swing and offering a breathtaking display of fast, bright shooting stars streaking across the night sky.
As we move closer to the middle of August, the excitement is set to increase. During the peak of the shower, if conditions are favorable, you could witness up to 100 meteors per hour, some of which might even turn into fiery fireballs.
Unlike other meteor showers this year, the moonlight is not expected to overshadow this magnificent event. Although the waxing crescent moon will be visible as we near the peak, it will have set below the horizon by the time meteor activity intensifies.
For a comprehensive list of meteor showers throughout the year, check out our meteor shower calendar. If you’re interested in astrophotography but unsure where to begin, expert Pete Lawrence has put together a beginner’s guide on capturing amazing photos of the moon.
When is the Perseid meteor shower in 2024?
The Perseid meteor shower will commence on July 17, 2024, and extend until around August 24. The optimal viewing time for the meteors is from midnight until dawn.
The peak of the meteor shower is expected on August 12, with increased meteor activity around this period. Since the peak occurs during the daytime, the best times to observe the Perseids are before and after the peak, specifically on the nights of August 11/12 and August 12/13.
You’ll have the best visibility between midnight and just before sunrise (around 5:30 am in the UK, 6 am in New York, and Los Angeles).
How many meteors can you see?
The Perseids are known for being one of the most active meteor showers of the year, but it doesn’t mean there will be a constant stream of meteors to observe. Most images capturing numerous meteors are the result of long exposure shots that can capture dozens, or even hundreds, of meteors in a single frame.
Under ideal conditions and dark skies, you could potentially see up to 100 meteors per hour. However, in reality, you’re likely to witness far fewer, possibly only a few dozen per hour. Nonetheless, the Perseid meteor shower remains a spectacular event.
The Perseid meteor shower is about to reach its peak. – Photo credit: Getty Images
Where to look in the sky
The most favorable direction to observe the Perseid meteor shower is directly overhead. Aim to have as much of the sky in your field of view as possible, as the meteors will traverse the entire sky and won’t be confined to a specific location.
It can be useful to know the radiant point, as it helps differentiate the Perseids from sporadic meteors. The radiant point of a meteor shower appears to be the origin of the meteors.
In the case of the Perseid meteor shower, the radiant point is within the constellation Perseus, hence the name “Perseid meteor shower.”
If you look towards the northeast early in the morning, you’ll spot the constellation Perseus positioned directly above the bright Jupiter. Taurus is situated to the right of Jupiter, and you might even catch a glimpse of Mars nearby.
Since the sun rises in the east, facing in that direction and slightly turning left will have you looking towards the northeast. However, don’t worry if you’re unsure of the direction – meteors can appear anywhere overhead.
Perseus lies between the prominent “W” of Cassiopeia and the Pleiades star cluster. If you’re having difficulty locating the radiant point, an astronomy app can assist you (check out our recommended astronomy apps).
* The closest conjunction of Mars and Jupiter is set to occur on August 14, 2024. This will be the closest conjunction of the two planets until 2033, potentially offering an extraordinary sight alongside the Perseid meteor shower.
What causes the Perseid meteor shower?
Meteor showers manifest when a parent object (typically a comet or asteroid) leaves behind a trail of debris in its path around the Sun. As Earth intersects with this debris stream, the particles interact with the atmosphere, creating luminous streaks known as shooting stars.
Regular meteor showers like the Perseids follow a predictable pattern, occurring at the same time each year and peaking when Earth’s orbit intersects with the densest part of the shower.
According to astronomer David Schneider, “As Earth passes through the debris stream, the density of particles increases to a maximum and then decreases again. This usually takes a few weeks, but can also take a few days. The meteor shower peaks during the period of maximum density.” Presenter Pete Lawrence further elaborates.
In the case of the Perseids, Comet Swift-Tuttle serves as the parent body, which is a sizable comet composed of dust, ice, and rock. With a nucleus diameter of approximately 26 kilometers (about 16 miles) and a 133-year orbit around the Sun, Comet Swift-Tuttle is classified as a short-period comet denoted by the “P” in its official designation, 109P/Swift-Tuttle.
The comet’s last visible appearance was in 1992, with its next anticipated return in 2125 or 2126. While it was too dim to be observed with the naked eye in 1992, a clearer view is expected a century from now.
Will the moon affect visibility?
This year, moonlight may pose a challenge as a half moon will be visible on the evenings of August 11 and 12 before and after the peak. The moon’s luminosity will gradually increase as it approaches full moon status on August 19.
If observing at night, you may have to contend with moonlight obstruction, with the Moon being 51% bright on August 12 and 61% bright on August 13.
However, as the Perseid meteor shower activity intensifies after midnight on both nights, observing in the early morning should not be hindered by the moon’s light.
The optimum viewing time for the Perseid meteor shower is before sunrise between midnight and 5:30 am in the UK and 6 am in the US. With the moon below the horizon, there will be a higher probability of witnessing more meteors.
Tips for Maximizing Your Meteor Watching Experience
You don’t need a telescope or binoculars to enjoy the Perseid meteor shower; it’s best observed with the naked eye to capture a wider expanse of the sky than through optical devices.
“For optimal visibility, watch in a dark, moonless sky and allow at least 20 minutes in complete darkness to acclimatize to your surroundings,” suggests Lawrence. “A reclining chair provides an ideal vantage point for meteor observation.”
“Spend at least 30 minutes, if not longer, watching the sky. The rest is up to chance, but witnessing a bright summer meteor streaking across the sky will leave a lasting impression,” he adds.
Here are some tips to help you maximize your meteor viewing experience.
Avoid bright lights. Choose viewing locations away from bright artificial lights and ensure that streetlights are not directly in your line of vision.
Allow your eyes to adapt. Spend about 20 minutes outside until your eyes adjust to the darkness.
Use a red light filter when looking at your phone. This can be a physical red filter or an app that maintains your night vision until your eyes acclimate.
Choose the right time: Early morning is the prime time to witness the Perseid meteor shower at its peak activity and with the Moon below the horizon.
Block out the moon. If unable to observe in the early morning, still look out for meteors in the evening. During the peak on August 11/12 and 12/13, the Moon will be about 50-60% illuminated, so position yourself where the Moon is obscured by buildings or trees for better viewing.
Keep a wide field of vision. Maximize your peripheral vision to see as much of the sky as possible.
Beware of fireballs. The larger particles from the comet fragments responsible for the Perseid meteor shower can produce bright, long-lasting bursts of light, known as fireballs.
Identifying Perseid Meteors
While other meteors might be visible during this event, they are considered sporadic meteors.
Referred to as “sporadic meteor showers,” these meteors can appear from any direction in the sky and are not linked to a specific meteor shower like the Perseids (albeit they may originate from undiscovered meteor showers).
Lawrence differentiates between sporadic and shower meteors, stating: “Sporadic meteors occur when a small rock, typically the size of a grain of sand, enters Earth’s atmosphere, vaporizes, and creates a luminous streak known as a meteor trail. These occur randomly and can appear at any time, from any direction.”
Distinguishing between a sporadic meteor and a Perseid meteor shower can be tricky, but it’s based on their apparent direction in the sky. Meteor showers typically emanate from the radiant point associated with the shower, while sporadic meteors can streak across the sky from any direction at any given time.
According to Lawrence, “Meteor showers, in contrast [to sporadics], occur when a stream of sand-sized particles in orbit around the Sun intersects Earth’s atmosphere. Associated with comets and possibly asteroids, these particles are released over time and dispersed into orbit.”
“As they follow parallel orbits around the Sun and enter the atmosphere, they appear to originate from the same region of the sky, known as the shower’s radiant point.”
Knowing the radiant point of a specific meteor shower (such as the constellation Perseus for the Perseid meteor shower) enables you to discern whether the meteor you’re witnessing belongs to that meteor shower or if it’s a sporadic meteor.
About our experts
Pete Lawrence: With extensive experience as an astronomer, astrophotographer, and BBC night sky presenter, Pete Lawrence’s expertise shines on the show aired on BBC Four and available on demand through BBC iPlayer.
Occasionally, you may have the opportunity to witness the Northern Lights from your home in the UK or US. Tonight (Wednesday, July 24) presents a moderate chance of seeing these mesmerizing lights.
Typically, the Northern Lights are only visible in countries like Canada, Russia, and Sweden, but they have been spotted from as far as Penzance in Cornwall earlier this year.
While it’s rare for the lights to reach Cornwall, seeing the Northern Lights from the UK is not uncommon, although it requires a severe geomagnetic storm, which is a rare occurrence.
When can I see the Aurora tonight?
The Space Weather Forecast suggests that a solar storm may hit the Earth this week, potentially making the Northern Lights visible in parts of the UK on Wednesday, July 24.
Unfortunately, the Northern Lights can only be seen in certain parts of the UK, such as the north of England and Northern Ireland.
In the United States, it may be visible across several northern and upper Midwestern states from New York to Idaho.
However, due to the season, the window for viewing the Northern Lights is limited.
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How to increase your chances of seeing the Aurora
To enhance your chances of witnessing the Northern Lights, it is advisable to move away from urban areas with clear skies and minimal light pollution.
Locate a north-facing shoreline for the best viewing experience with fewer obstructions and less light pollution.
What Causes the Northern Lights?
The Aurora Borealis occurs when high-energy particles from the Sun collide with lower-energy particles in the Earth’s atmosphere.
Geomagnetic storms can push the Aurora further south, making them visible in regions where they are not usually seen.
These storms are more likely to occur during the waning stages of a solar cycle, when coronal holes generate high-speed solar wind that disrupts Earth’s magnetic field.
Why do the auroras have different colors?
The color of the Northern Lights can vary based on the atoms in Earth’s atmosphere reacting with the Sun’s energy.
Green auroras are produced by high-altitude oxygen atoms, while blue, yellow, or red auroras indicate lower-altitude oxygen or nitrogen atoms colliding with solar particles.
What does “Aurora” mean?
The term “Aurora Borealis” roughly translates to “North Wind Dawn” and is a nickname for the Northern Lights. Boreas is the god of the north wind in ancient Greek mythology.
The Southern Lights are also known as “Aurora Australis”, translating to “southern wind dawn”. These lights can be influenced by geomagnetic storms and have been seen in locations like New Zealand and Australia.
SpaceX’s giant Starship rocket was deployed on the launch pad at StarBase, the company’s facility in South Texas, in June 2024 ahead of a planned test flight.
SpaceX is getting ready Starship. The most powerful rocket ever built is gearing up for its next test launch. Here’s everything you need to know.
What time is the launch scheduled?
The launch is expected to take place in the next week or so, but SpaceX has said it could take place as soon as June 5, pending regulatory approval. Each flight must be approved by the US Federal Aviation Administration.
Other signs point to the same day. Judge Eddie Trevino of Cameron County, Texas, home to SpaceX’s Starbase launch site, said: Nearby roads are closed. It will be carried out at the beginning of June. This precautionary measure is usually taken during launches, but it may also be relevant for some of the ground tests.
However, Treviño explicitly states in official documents that these closures are for “flight testing,” and establishes a 14-hour closure period from midnight to 2 p.m. local time on June 5. The documents also state that alternative closures of the same duration could be scheduled on June 6 and 7, if the company so desires.
How can I watch the Starship launch?
SpaceX has announced that a live webcast will begin approximately 30 minutes before launch.
Where is Starship going?
The fourth test flight will focus on returning Starship from orbit and conducting a mock landing of both the Starship and the Super Heavy first stage booster. Because landings on ground are currently deemed too risky, both vehicles will make a “soft splashdown” in the ocean, using their engines to slow their descent and line up, as if they were landing on a base, to gently touch down on the water. The first stage booster is scheduled to splash down in the Gulf of Mexico, not far from the launch site, about seven minutes after liftoff, while Starship aims to splash down in the Indian Ocean about an hour later.
What has happened in Starship launches so far?
All three Starship launches have ended in explosions, which was expected as part of SpaceX’s “fail fast, learn fast” strategy.
During the first launch on April 20 last year, three of the first stage’s three engines (out of a total of 33) failed to ignite. Several more subsequently failed during the flight. The rocket then spun out of control and its self-destruct safety mechanism was activated. The entire flight lasted about three minutes, reaching a maximum altitude of 39 kilometers.
Starship’s second launch was on November 18. This time, all 33 engines were working, and the rocket flew far enough for the first and second stages to separate. But as the first stage rotated to begin its deceleration and landing procedure, it exploded. The second stage continued on smoothly to an altitude of about 90 miles, passing the Kármán line, which marks the beginning of the universe. But it was destroyed by a safety device after it stopped transmitting data before completing an orbit or returning to Earth.
SpaceX’s third Starship test flight, on March 14, was at least partially successful, as it reached space, performed a fuel transfer test, and flew farther and faster than ever before. However, it lost attitude control during the flight and failed to make the planned soft landing. Nevertheless, it achieved several important milestones, including Starship’s first atmospheric reentry from space, the first opening and closing of Starship’s payload door in space, and a successful demonstration of fuel transfer, which is key for future NASA Artemis missions to the Moon.
What would happen if this launch were to fail?
The chances of Starship completing its mission perfectly are slim, so it’s likely to fail in some way. But failure will provide data and experience that can be used to improve the design and process for the fifth launch. SpaceX has shown it can iterate quickly and make great strides with each launch.
Be cautious of counterfeit eclipse glasses. A genuine pair should have a silver front lens and a black interior. It should be clearly marked with the manufacturer’s name and address and should not be damaged. Look for the ISO logo and code “IS 12312-2” on the inside as well.
If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a DIY pinhole projector using white cardboard or paper, aluminum foil, and a pin. Cut a small square or rectangle in the center of the material, cover it with foil, and create a small hole with a pin. This projector allows you to safely view the sun’s image on a surface.
During a solar eclipse, position a second piece of material as a screen on the ground, hold the projector with the foil facing up, and adjust the distance to change the image size on the screen.
Important things to note when observing a total solar eclipse
Along the path of the eclipse, there are significant moments to witness as the event progresses.
As the sun dims during the eclipse, the surroundings start to darken, creating an eerie atmosphere.
The “diamond ring effect” was demonstrated after a total solar eclipse at Palm Cove in Australia’s tropical north Queensland state in 2012. Greg Wood/AFP – Getty Images File
Stay alert for the “diamond ring effect” as the last sunlight disappears, creating an illuminated halo around the sun and a diamond-like appearance.
As the light diminishes further, the Moon’s rough terrain creates Bailey beads. These small light beads are visible briefly as the remaining sunlight filters through the moon’s surface.
When the moon completely covers the sun, it is safe to remove your eclipse glasses and observe the total solar eclipse directly with the naked eye.
Watching a total solar eclipse is an experience you’ll never forget, but if you don’t take the right precautions, it could end up for the wrong reasons. Looking directly at the sun can be dangerous, so read on to learn how to safely observe a solar eclipse and what you need to prepare in advance.
On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will be visible to more than 42 million people across North America. The total path is only about 185 kilometers wide and touches Mexico, 13 U.S. states, and parts of Canada. Most people in North America will experience this phenomenon as a partial solar eclipse, rather than a total solar eclipse.
“For those outside the path of totality, the moon will never completely cover the sun,” he says. Jeff Todd At Prevent Blindness, a Chicago-based eye care advocacy group. No matter how you look at it, eye protection is essential.
“To avoid damaging your eyes, you should wear eclipse glasses throughout the eclipse,” says Todd. Otherwise, you risk burning your retina. This phenomenon, also known as “eclipse blindness,” can occur painlessly and can be permanent. It may take several days after seeing a solar eclipse before you realize something is wrong. Sunglasses do not provide sufficient protection. However, it is perfectly safe to wear eclipse glasses over your prescription glasses.
How to safely view a solar eclipse
The prize for those traveling the path of totality is seeing the sun’s corona with the naked eye. However, it is only visible for a short few minutes during totality. Otherwise, partial phases will be visible and must be observed through eclipse glasses. Todd says people on the path to totality should wear eclipse glasses at all times, except during totality, a brief period of darkness when the sun is completely hidden by the moon. “Only then can you take off your eclipse glasses,” he said.
It is important for those in the path of totality to use their naked eyes to view the Sun during a total solar eclipse. “You have to look without a protective filter, otherwise you won’t see anything,” he says. ralph chow At the University of Waterloo, Canada.
solar eclipse 2024
On April 8th, a total solar eclipse will pass over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Our special series covers everything you need to know, from how and when to see a solar eclipse to the strangest solar eclipse experience of all time.
Just before totality ends, light from the Sun’s photosphere flows between the Moon’s peaks and valleys. Called Bailey beads, they appear for a few seconds and eventually become a flashing “diamond ring,” exposing enough of the sun’s photosphere for sunlight to return. “It gives us ample warning that it’s time to resume viewing partial solar eclipses with protective filters,” Chow said.
Which solar eclipse glasses should I buy?
It is important to wear eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 international standard. ISO 12312-2 applies to products used for direct viewing of the sun. “Look for the ISO standard label and buy your glasses from a trusted source,” says Todd. “Get your glasses early in time for the eclipse.” Before you buy, make sure the company or brand is listed on the American Astronomical Society’s site. A vetted list of suppliers and resellers.
Do not use Eclipse glasses with binoculars or telescopes. If you want to use these instruments to observe a solar eclipse, you’ll need to attach a solar filter over the objective lens (the lens opposite the one you’re looking through). Never place solar filters or eclipse glasses between the telescope eye and the eyepiece or binocular eyecup.
Another way to safely view the eclipse is with a pinhole projector. This is a simple device that projects an image of the sun onto paper or cardboard through a small hole. An even easier method is to use a colander or a small hole in a spaghetti spoon. This projects a small crescent sun onto every surface.
Passengers who book special Delta flights will have the opportunity to witness the total solar eclipse in April from a unique perspective at 30,000 feet.
The airline revealed on Monday that it will be offering flights from Dallas-Fort Worth to Detroit on April 8, allowing passengers to maximize their time within the eclipse’s “total path.”
The eclipse is anticipated to be a significant event as it travels through various populated areas of North America, including parts of Mexico, the continental United States, and eastern Canada. In the U.S. alone, millions of sky gazers from Texas to Maine will have the chance to witness this rare astronomical occurrence.
A solar eclipse happens when the moon moves between the Earth and the sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light. Within the approximately 100-mile-wide strip known as the Path of Totality, observers will witness the moon completely obscuring the sun, creating a darkened afternoon sky.
Delta Airlines is providing eclipse enthusiasts with another option to experience the April event. The flight announced on Monday will be the airline’s second full charter scheduled for April 8. The initial flight from Austin, Texas to Detroit was announced on February 19 and sold out within 24 hours, according to the company.
The Austin to Detroit flight (Delta Flight 1218) is on an A220-300 aircraft, departing from Texas at 12:15pm Central Time and arriving in Detroit at 4:20pm Eastern Time.
The flight from Dallas-Fort Worth to Detroit (Delta Flight 1010) is operated on a large A321neo plane, departing Texas at 12:30 PM (Central Time) and landing in Detroit at 4:20 PM (Eastern Time).
While the flights are designed to maximize time within the total path, they are subject to potential changes due to factors like weather conditions and air traffic control.
For detailed booking information, visit the following website: Delta.com.
The upcoming solar eclipse is poised to be a major draw for travel and tourism, with many businesses already capitalizing on it. Hotels are offering special solar eclipse packages, while state tourism departments are organizing various events tied to the cosmic phenomenon.
During the April eclipse, the total path will traverse through states like Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. In certain areas of Michigan and Tennessee, totality may be visible if weather conditions are clear.
In other parts of the continental U.S., observers will witness a partial solar eclipse, where the moon appears to “take a bite” out of the sun and only partially obscures it in the sky.
To safely observe the eclipse, use eclipse glasses or a pinhole projector to avoid eye damage. Never look directly at the sun during a solar eclipse, even when it is partially or mostly covered by the moon.
The upcoming full moon in February 2024, known as the snow moon, will be the second one of the year. Despite being a micromoon this month, it signifies the end of winter and the coming of spring.
Wondering when is the best time to witness this full snow moon in the UK? How close is the micromoon? And the current constellation of the moon? Here is everything you need to know about the full moon in February 2024.
If you want to enjoy a clear night sky, explore our beginner’s guide to astronomy. To get familiar with some unique constellations, this guide is the perfect starting point.
Interested in capturing beautiful moon photos? Check out our practical moon photography guide that is filled with expert advice from astrophotographers and even BBC Night Sky presenter Pete Lawrence. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, we have tutorials to suit your needs.
When will we see the snow moon in 2024?
If the skies are clear, the snow moon will be visible in the early morning and evening on February 24, 2024, across the UK, US, and other parts of the world.
The peak illumination of the full moon in February will happen at 12:30 PM GMT. For viewers in the UK, this means that the moon will be fully illuminated during the day when it is below the horizon. However, it will still appear “full” when it rises at night and for a few days after.
In London, the Snow Moon will rise in the east-northeast on February 24 at 5:27pm GMT and set in the west-northwest at 7:32 a.m. on February 25th.
In New York, the Snow Moon will rise in the east-northeast on February 24 at 5:55 pm ET and set in the western sky at 7:18 am on February 25th.
In Seattle, the Snow Moon will rise in the east-northeast on February 24 at 6:07 pm PST and set in the west at 7:40 a.m. on February 25th.
What’s unique about the 2024 Snow Moon?
This year’s Snow Moon is special for two reasons. First, it falls on the day before the moon reaches its apogee, making it the smallest full moon of the year. Secondly, it coincides with the Lunar New Year celebrations, including the Lantern Festival.
On February 24th, National Tortilla Day is also celebrated in the US, giving you another reason to toast the full moon with chips and dip.
When is the best time to view the 2024 Snow Moon?
The best time to observe the snow moon is in the evening of February 24th, just after sunrise, or before moonset on the morning of February 24th. The moon will be closest to full illumination and low on the horizon in both cases.
In London, the moon will set at 7:21 a.m. GMT on the morning of February 24th, offering a picturesque sight low on the horizon. And if you wait until evening, the moon will rise at 5:27pm GMT on February 24th, just after sunset.
The Earth’s counterclockwise rotation means that the moon will appear to move across the sky from left to right in the Northern Hemisphere and from right to left in the Southern Hemisphere at a rate of 15 degrees per hour.
Why is February’s full moon called the snow moon?
February is one of the coldest months of the year in the Northern Hemisphere due to the cooling effects of winter and the sun’s lower angle. The snow moon gets its name from the significant snowfall experienced in the US, Canada, and Europe during this time.
What constellation is the moon in?
On February 22nd, the Moon will be in Cancer, and by the full moon, it will have moved into Leo, situated between Regulus and Keltan. Three days later, the moon will shift to Virgo, followed by Libra from March 1st.
Is the snow moon a supermoon?
No, the February 2024 snow moon is not a supermoon, as it will be a micromoon. Supermoons occur when the moon is closest to Earth, known as perigee, making it appear larger and brighter in the sky.
How far away is the moon?
During apogee on February 25, the moon will be 406,312 km (252,470 miles) away from Earth, making it the smallest full moon of 2024. The farthest point of the moon from Earth will be on October 2, 2024, at 406,516 km (252,597 miles) during a new moon.
What causes a full moon?
A full moon occurs when the side facing Earth is fully illuminated by the sun, as the Earth is positioned between the Sun and the Moon. This alignment, known as “syzygy,” only lasts for a moment but signifies a full moon in the lunar cycle.
The moon’s cycle lasts about 29.53 days, with the full moon marking the midpoint. The sun and moon balance each other during a full moon, with the moon appearing full all night but technically only being “full” for a brief moment.
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