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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.
December 20, 2021
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.
December 19, 2021
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.
December 2, 2021
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.
November 24, 2021
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 18, 2021
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.
November 18, 2021
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.
November 14, 2021
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.
October 26, 2021
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!
September 13, 2021
Farthest quarter moon on August 30
In August 2021, the year's farthest quarter moon occurs as the moon reaches last quarter and closest lunar apogee at nearly the same time.
August 28, 2021
