The sky will light up 2008, bringing nighttime observers some truly enjoyable astronomical events. This year, we’re going to witness a total solar eclipse, two pairings of the sky’s brightest planets, and a total lunar eclipse. Talk about phenomenal.
You can check out star cluster occulations and in August, you might be able to spot the annual Perseid meteor shower. Space.com’s Night Sky column will let you in on upcoming events just in time to whip out your telescope all year round, including the following:
- February 1 – Venus-Jupiter conjunction, Part 1: The two brightest planets in the sky will meet on the morning of Feb 1, and will be best seen about 45 minutes before sunrise. Three days later, the crescent moon will join the two, creating a beautiful sight.
- February 20 & 21 – Total eclipse of the moon: Though less than 6 months after the last total lunar eclipse, much of North America will be able to see this one from their own back yard. It will last for about 50 minutes, and promises to be spectacular.
- August 1 – Total solar eclipse: Though only viewable from distant locations like Siberia, this total eclipse will cause Earth’s sun to be blocked for a total of 2.3 minutes.
- August 16 – Partial lunar eclipse: Believe it or not, our moon will eclipse yet again, though only partially, this time giving our global neighbors in Europe, Africa, and Asia a good view.
Clearly, if you love the night sky, 2008 is a going to be a great year.
