Neptune at opposition to the sun this weekend

Neptune at opposition - when it's 180 degrees from the sun on the sky's dome - comes early on September 21, 2024. You'll need optical aid to spot it.

Are day and night equal on the equinox?

Are day and night equal at an equinox? No. Earth's atmosphere and our sun team up to give us more day than night during an equinox.

Equinox sun above horizon all day at the poles

We know the equinox sun rises due east and sets due west. But what happens at Earth's poles? Does the sun look exactly the same at both poles?

Year’s fastest sunsets happen around equinoxes

The year's fastest sunsets are at the equinoxes, and the slowest are at the solstices. We're talking about how long it takes the sun to sink below the horizon.

Our top 10 stargazing tips for beginning astronomers

If you're new to observing the night sky, check out our top 10 stargazing tips for beginners. We'll help you explore and expand your love for astronomy.

Partial lunar eclipse September 17-18, 2024

A shallow partial lunar eclipse takes place on September 17-18, 2024. It's visible in most of the Western Hemisphere. Maps and details here.

2nd eclipse season of 2024 starts September 17-18

There are many cycles in the heavens. We're coming up to a noticeable cycle, the 2nd eclipse season this year. It starts with a partial lunar eclipse.

International Observe the Moon Night September 14

International Observe the Moon Night is September 14, 2024. It's a global event for celebrating the moon. Here's how you can participate online or in person.

What does opposition mean for an outer planet?

Opposition is when Earth passes directly between the sun and an outer planet, placing the outer planet on the opposite side of the sky from the sun.

Saturn at opposition – brightest for 2024 – on September 8

Don't miss Saturn at opposition on and around the night of September 8, 2024. That's when our planet Earth passes between the sun and Saturn.