Stargazing Guide to 2025’s Celestial Calendar
Millions had the chance to enjoy a rare, fleeting cosmic spectacle during this year’s total solar eclipse, which cast a shadow across North America on April 8. The moon passed between the sun
and Earth and completely blocked the sun, leaving viewers in darkness for several minutes.
Not to be confused with last year’s annular solar eclipse, in which the moon passed between the sun and Earth but appeared smaller than the sun because the moon was at its farthest point from Earth.
TOTAL DARKNESS
Unlike the annular solar eclipse in October, a total solar eclipse is much rarer, not because they occur infrequently – one takes place every 18 months – but because they are only seen from a tiny portion of the Earth’s surface each time. The path of the April 2024 total eclipse covered less than 1 percent of Earth’s surface, stretching across Mexico, 13 states in the United States, and Canada.
At River Ranch County Park, Southwestern University, and Inner Space Cavern, many local sky watchers enjoyed a glimpse of the celestial show that won’t return to the United States until August 23, 2044. Can’t wait that long for another stellar display?
Quadrantids Meteor Shower, January 2-3
The year kicks off with the Quadrantids, one of the best annual meteor showers that produces up to 120 meteors per hour during its peak. These meteors appear to radiate from the constellation Boötes and can be a spectacular sight in clear, dark skies. For the best view, plan to watch in the pre-dawn hours when the sky is at its darkest.
Planet parade, January-February
In a rare alignment, six planets will be visible in the night sky starting January 21 through the first few weeks of February. This “planet parade” is a must-see event, offering a unique chance to view an exquisite planetary lineup with the naked eye or a telescope.
Total lunar eclipse, March 14
In March, stargazers can catch a total lunar eclipse, where Earth’s shadow will completely cover the moon, casting it in a reddish hue. This “blood moon” effect will be visible in the early morning hours. Fun fact: the supermoon’s reddish hue is thanks to Earth’s atmosphere scattering sunlight, with only the red part of the spectrum reaching the moon.
Partial solar eclipse, March 29
In March, a partial solar eclipse will be visible from parts of the United States During this event, the moon will partially cover the sun, creating a crescent-shaped sun in the sky. Remember to use proper solar viewing glasses to safely enjoy this spectacular sight!
Perseids meteor shower, August 11-12
Known for its bright, fast meteors, the Perseids are one of the year’s most beloved meteor showers, with up to 100 meteors per hour during its peak.
Geminids meteor shower, December 13-14
Rounding out the year, the Geminids will dazzle with up to 120 meteors per hour. The Geminids are unique as they originate from an asteroid, 3200 Phaethon, rather than a comet. Known for their multicolored meteors, they are a colorful finale to the year’s night-sky events.
Supermoons
October 7, November 5, December 4 This rare sequence of three consecutive supermoons will be especially captivating for sky watchers. During a supermoon, the moon is at its closest point to Earth in its orbit, called perigee, which makes it appear up to 14 percent larger and 30 percent brighter than a typical full moon. For the best view, try watching just as the moon rises or sets, when it’s closest to the horizon. This creates a “moon illusion,” where the supermoon appears even larger due to its position against buildings or landscapes.