In periods of four years, lunar perigees and apogees fall on the same, or nearly the same, calendar dates.

In 2020, the longest lunar month happens between the February 23 and March 24 new moons; and the shortest one between the August 19 to September 17 new moons.

The annular solar eclipse on December 26, 2019, happened some 4 days before the middle of the eclipse season, which came to pass on December 30, 2019.

The December 26, 2019, annular or 'ring of fire' solar eclipse was viewed across a narrow track that started at sunrise in Saudi Arabia and ended at sunset over the North Pacific Ocean.

Venus and Jupiter had a spectacular conjunction last month. Soon, Saturn and Venus will meet in the west after sunset. Guy Ottewell offers insights and charts to prepare you for this encounter between worlds.

The sun always passes in front of Ophiuchus from about November 30 to December 18. That's why some call Ophiuchus an unofficial member of the zodiac.

What a week it's been for planets! Jupiter and Venus - the 2 brightest planets - were in conjunction last Sunday. Then the moon swept through the evening sky, passing Jupiter, Venus and Saturn. Thanks to all in the EarthSky Community who contributed photos! A sampling here ... Links to more in this post.

We've heard no reports so far today from anyone who saw a rich burst of meteors from the constellation of the Unicorn (Monoceros) last night. Looks like the meteor burst did not happen.

Click here for awesome photos from members of the EarthSky community of the November 11, 2019, transit of Mercury. It'll be the last Mercury transit until 2032. A huge thank you to all who submitted to EarthSky Community Photos!

Full moon comes on November 12, 2019, as the moon is sweeping through the constellation Taurus the Bull. This full moon comes on the peak night of the North Taurid meteor shower.