Past-and-future Earths ring in New Year

Past-and-future Earths. A novel way of picturing ourselves riding on Earth, orbiting the sun, from astronomer Guy Ottewell.

Comet Leonard in the evening sky

The first comet to be found in 2021 was Comet Leonard (C/2021 A1). It's now the brightest and best comet of this year! Charts and more here.

Ursid meteor shower peaks morning of December 22

The Ursid meteor shower always peaks around the December solstice. The dark hours before dawn are best. This year, a nearly full moon interferes.

Total solar eclipse of December 4, 2021

A total solar eclipse occurs December 4, 2021. The total phase sweeps over Antarctica, while the partial phase reaches southernmost points of three continents.

Ceres at opposition November 27

Ceres at opposition on November 27. The dwarf planet has been passing in front of the constellation Taurus the Bull all month, including near Aldebaran.

Deep partial lunar eclipse November 18-19: Great for North America

A partial lunar eclipse occurs on November 19, 2021. It will reach the Americas, North Europe, eastern Asia, Australia, and the Pacific.

November 2021 partial lunar eclipse longest for 1,000 years

The partial lunar eclipse on November 19, 2021, will be the longest since the 15th century, around the time Machu Picchu was being built.

The enduring mystique of Barnard’s Star

Sometimes called Barnard's Runaway Star, it's one of the best known stars in the history of astronomy and in popular culture.

Heads up! Famous comet 67P/C-G nearly closest

Famous comet 67P/C-G will sweep closest to Earth in November. Finder charts help you locate this comet before it leaves for another 193 years.

Mercury greatest elongation September 14, best for S. Hemisphere

Watch for Mercury from Southern Hemisphere locations in late August, through September, 2021. Meanwhile, from northerly latitudes, bring binoculars!