Tech Desk
Aug 12, 2024
This August, many breathtaking and rare celestial events will turn the month into a visual treat for stargazers and astronomy admirers. Meteor showers, conjunctions, and lunar occultations can light up the sky this month, which seems to have so much for stargazers.
Top celestial events of August 2024
Here are the top celestial events to look out for:
Perseid meteor shower (August 12-13)
One of the year's most popular meteor showers, the Perseid Meteor Shower, will peak on August 12-13. As many as 50-100 meteors per hour will be careening from the constellation of Perseus in the sky.
Mars and Jupiter conjunction (August 14)
On August 14, stargazers across the globe will be treated to a very rare conjunction by planetary giants Mars and Jupiter. The conjunction will, therefore, would be a great view of the night sky.
Blue Moon (Supermoon) (August 19)
A Blue Moon refers to when you have two full moons within a month. This rare event combines with a Supermoon when the moon looks larger and brighter than usual.
Read more: Perseid meteor shower 2024 — Here’s your last minute guide
Lunar occultation of Saturn (August 21)
On the 21st of August, the Moon will pass in front of Saturn and create a lunar occultation. Some parts of the world shall be able to witness this, with the uniqueness of viewing a shadow of the Moon on Saturn.
Six-planet conjunction (August 28)
End the month of August with a big bang by witnessing a very rare conjunction of six planets: Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and Uranus. This can be seen in the eastern sky before sunrise.
