Anticipated Astronomical Milestones by AMC in 2024
Stargazing enthusiasts, listen up! Get ready for an interstellar adventure as we guide you through the top celestial events of 2024. Mark your calendars and pack your camping gear for an unforgettable sky show.
The much-anticipated total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, brought record crowds to the skies. But don't fret if you missed out, for the night sky is always ready to put on a show. Sometimes, it's those special nights when stars align just right, presenting us with miracles of science. Sound intriguing? Simply look up and let your jaw drop. And unlike a total solar eclipse, many of these events happen regularly, you just need to know where to point your telescope.
Luckily, AMC's Maine Lodges are nestled in the AMC Maine Woods International Dark Sky Park, the first and only International Dark Sky Park in New England. Dark sky certification means we've gone the extra mile to keep our night sky visible, ensuring it'll remain that way for generations to come. If you're looking for the ultimate stargazing experience, pack your bags and come see us in Maine.
Here's a glimpse of what to expect for the rest of 2024:
June 20 - June Solstice
June Solstice, or "Summer Solstice," is when our northern pole gets cozy with the sun. Prepare for the longest day on the calendar in the northern hemisphere!
June 22 - Full Moon
July 5 - New Moon
July 21 - Full Moon
July 22 - Mercury at Greatest Eastern Elongation
Mercury will be at its highest point in the night sky for a clear peek at our solar system's first planet.
July 28, 29 - Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower
August 4 - New Moon
August 12, 13 - Perseids Meteor Shower
Hold on tight! Get your camp chair and some snacks for the best meteor shower of the year. Expect up to 100 meteors per hour—early morning on August 13 promises the best view.
August 19 - Full Moon
September 3 - New Moon
September 5 - Mercury at Greatest Western Elongation
September 8 - Saturn at Opposition
Planet Saturn will be right smack in the middle of the night sky, making it a cinch for backyard stargazers.
September 18 - Full Moon, Supermoon/ Partial Lunar Eclipse
Not one, but two events in one night! A Supermoon, also known as the "harvest" moon, appears larger and slightly brighter than usual, making it the perfect backdrop for a partial lunar eclipse. Ghostly shadows will plunge part of the moon behind the earth's shadow, creating a stunning display.
September 20 - Neptune at Opposition
September 22 - September Equinox
October 2 - New Moon
October 7 - Draconids Meteor Shower
October 17 - Full Moon, Supermoon
October 21, 22 - Orionids Meteor Shower
November 1 - New Moon
November 4, 5 - Taurids Meteor Shower
November 15 - Full Moon, Supermoon
November 16 - Mercury at Greatest Eastern Elongation
November 17 - Uranus at Opposition
November 17, 18 - Leonids Meteor Shower
December 1 - New Moon
December 7 - Jupiter at Opposition
December 13, 14 - Geminids Meteor Shower
December 15 - Full Moon
December 21 - December Solstice
December 21, 22 - Ursids Meteor Shower
December 25 - Mercury at Greatest Western Elongation
December 30 - New Moon
There you have it, stargazers! Your guide to the celestial events of 2024. Find an open field near you or come see us in Maine for the ultimate stargazing experience. Happy sky watchin'!
To locate other astounding dark sky locations, check out the International Dark-Sky Association website for their list of certified International Dark Sky Places. So pack your bags, telescopes, and night vision goggles (if you've got 'em), and enjoy the stars above. Here's to finding your place beneath the cosmos!
- If you're seeking an exceptional stargazing experience, consider visiting the AMC Maine Lodges nestled in the AMC Maine Woods International Dark Sky Park, which ensures a visible night sky for future generations.
- Whether you're at home or in a dark sky location, don't forget to look up throughout 2024 for various celestial events such as meteor showers, full moons, new moons, and planetary alignments, offering a continuous display that combines elements of science, environmental-science, lifestyle, home-and-garden, and space-and-astronomy.
