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Posts by
Editors of EarthSky
Comet Halley is the parent of 2 meteor showers
The famous comet Halley spawns both the October Orionid meteor shower and the May Eta Aquariid meteor shower. It'll return to the inner solar system in 2061.
October 17, 2025
Large and Small Magellanic Clouds shine in southern skies
Have you seen the Magellanic Clouds? These 2 satellite galaxies of the Milky Way are noticeable features in the skies of the Southern Hemisphere.
October 14, 2025
How high up are meteors when they begin to glow?
How high up are meteors when they begin to glow? Meteors begin to glow almost as soon as they hit Earth's atmosphere, but vaporize at varying altitudes.
October 8, 2025
Are Humberto and Imelda undergoing the Fujiwhara effect?
Humberto and Imelda are “crowding” the Atlantic basin. They are relatively near each other. Humberto appears to be exerting a “pull” on Imelda.
October 1, 2025
October birthstone: Colorful opal and tourmaline
Take your pick: the October birthstone is either the striking iridescent opal or the many-colored tourmaline. Learn the lore of these pretty gemstones here.
October 1, 2025
How many stars can you see on a moonless night?
Have you ever wondered how many stars are visible on a given night? It all depends on how dark your sky is, what your age is, and other limiting factors.
September 23, 2025
We have 4 seasons each year, but why?
Some assume our planet's changing distance from the sun causes the 4 seasons. But it's actually the tilt of the Earth's axis.
September 21, 2025
Cassiopeia the Queen ascends in September and October
Cassiopeia the Queen is an easy-to-find constellation. It has the shape of a W or M. Look in the north-northeast sky on September and October evenings.
September 11, 2025
Astronomy Essentials
Saturn’s rings: Top tips for beginners
If you want to see Saturn's rings, September 2025 is a great time to look. Grab a telescope, find a dark sky and read the tips found here!
September 7, 2025
Sapphire: September birthstone comes in many colors
Sapphire, the September birthstone, is typically blue, the color caused by small amounts of titanium and iron in the crystal structure.
September 2, 2025
