Latest news with #Perseids
Washington Post
a day ago
- Science
- Washington Post
A guide to sky-watching from summer to autumn
Now that we've marked the summer solstice, it's the shorter nights of the year for the Northern Hemisphere that usher in a variety of celestial delights for sky-watchers who don't mind staying up until the early morning hours. Between now and the autumnal equinox, we are treated to the ghostly beauty of the summer Milky Way, a spectacular conjunction of the two brightest planets in the sky and the annual display of the Perseids meteor shower. Astronomical summer begins with the summer solstice, which was officially marked on June 20 at 10:42 p.m. Eastern time. This moment marked the Sun's highest excursion into the Northern Hemisphere sky, and for residents in the northern half of the globe, it brings the shortest nights of the year. Here in Washington we experience 9 hours and 6 minutes between sunset and sunrise for a couple of days on either side of the 20th day. Due to the slightly elliptical shape of Earth's orbit around the sun, we have already experienced the year's earliest sunrise, but the latest sunset won't occur until June 27, when Old Sol slips below the horizon at 8:38 p.m. Eastern time. The summer solstice has been an important calendar marker for humans for thousands of years. Evidence of this is found in ancient monuments and sacred sites throughout the earliest recorded histories of early civilizations. Perhaps the most famous of these is Stonehenge in England, a site occupied and developed by neolithic people over the course of a thousand years. It began around 3100 B.C. as a simple circular trench cut into the chalk of the Salisbury plains, with a long trench pointing to the direction of midsummer sunrise. The stone structure that we now see was added over the next millennium, turning the site into a sophisticated astronomical computer to determine the equinoxes and solstices. From ancient Mesopotamia to the Desert Southwest of the United States and sites in Mesoamerica, the importance of observing the solstice and related phenomena was vital to the survival of our distant ancestors. There will be three full moons during this season. They will fall on July 10, Aug. 9 and Sept. 7. July's full moon is known as the buck moon since male deer and other related species begin to grow antlers for the fall mating season. It is also known as the thunder moon due to the typical weather of midsummer afternoons. August brings us the sturgeon moon, so named because of the great number of these large fish that are found in the Great Lakes at this time of the year. September's full moon is usually dubbed the harvest moon, but this year that title belongs to October's full moon, which occurs closest to the autumnal equinox. This year the full moon of September is the corn moon, a celebration of one of the most important crops in the annual harvest. The corn moon will offer residents of Europe, Africa and especially Asia a total lunar eclipse. Unfortunately this event won't be visible from any part of the United States, but we won't have to wait too long to see one from our shores — mark your calendars for the early morning hours of March 3, 2026. Summer begins with only one planet in the evening sky: Mars. The Red Planet is wending its way eastward among the stars of spring in the western sky. On the night of the solstice, Mars may be found just east of the bright star Regulus in the constellation of Leo, the lion. By mid-September it will be close to the bright blue star Spica in Virgo as evening twilight falls. Night owls will find Saturn rising in the east after midnight in late June. By mid-August, the ringed planet rises at the end of evening twilight and is the prominent yellow-hued glow below the 'great square' asterism of Pegasus. By the time of the equinox, Saturn will be an easy evening target for telescope owners. This is a particularly interesting time to view Saturn, as it underwent one of its own equinoxes back on May 6. This occurs twice in its 30-year trek around the sun, and when the sun crosses the plane of Saturn's rings, they effectively disappear. Through the telescope, the rings will appear as spikes on either side of the planet, gradually becoming thinner into the fall as Earth approaches their orbital plane. The two brightest planets, Venus and Jupiter, remain in the morning sky throughout the season. Venus rises at around 3:30 p.m. Eastern time and is a bright beacon in the gathering morning twilight. Jupiter enters the morning sky in early August to join Venus, and on the morning of Aug. 12, the pair are less than one degree apart. A week later, Mercury will appear low in the east below the bright pair. The morning hours of Aug. 12 will put on quite a show. In addition to the conjunction of Venus and Jupiter, Saturn will be just to the east of the waning gibbous moon. The latter puts something of a damper on the annual Perseids meteor shower, but if you're on vacation at a dark site — like the beach or the mountains — take some time to see if you can spot some of the shower's brighter members. Many of the Perseids are like fireballs that can appear as bright as Jupiter or Venus. You might have to wait about 10 to 15 minutes to see one, but when you do it's quite a show. The summer sky has a number of bright stars that form easily recognizable patterns. The easiest of these to spot are the members of the summer triangle, consisting of Vega, Altair and Deneb. Each of these stars lead their own constellations, with the most distinctive being Cygnus, the Swan, where Deneb marks its 'tail.' The Swan's 'head' is marked by a gold-hued star that lies almost in the middle of the triangle. This is Albireo, perhaps the most beautiful double star in the sky. It can be resolved with almost any telescope, and the color contrast between its blue and yellow components is striking. You'll notice the luminous band of the summer Milky Way piercing the heart of the triangle on a moonless night from a dark location. Follow it to the south to locate the constellation of Scorpius with its distinctive red star Antares. A clear southern horizon will reveal the constellation's namesake shape. To the east of the Scorpion, look for the 'teapot' asterism of the constellation Sagittarius, the Archer. Use binoculars to pan northward from the teapot's 'spout' to reveal star clusters and glowing gaseous nebulae — this is my favorite place to spend those summer nights.
India.com
3 days ago
- Science
- India.com
Why Jaipur Is One Of The Best Cities In India For Stargazing
Jaipur functions as a famous Pink City of India that showcases a mixture of magnificent fortresses and active markets together with its wealth of cultural heritage. A secret treasure located beyond the architectural sights and downtown bustle of Jaipur lures astronomers from all over the world. Because of its distinct geographic position and role in history as well as its contemporary infrastructure Jaipur serves wonderfully for night sky watchers. Jaipur provides seven distinct reasons that make this location an ideal destination for star-gazing enthusiasts. 1. Strategic Geographical Location Jaipur occupies its favorable position for astronomical observation because it lies in northern India at a latitude approaching 26.9 degrees north. The middle latitudinal location enables astronomical observers to identify a broad spectrum of star patterns and planets and meteorological space objects year-round. A high altitude positioning of Jaipur at 431 meters above sea level generates purer starry skies than what urban locations at lower altitudes experience. 2. Historical Connection to Astronomy Astronomy forms an integral part of Jaipur CentOS since Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II ruled the city during the early eighteenth-century. The ruler devoted himself to architectural design as well as showing intense interest in astrology. The Indian Kingdom created the famous stone sundial complex Jantar Mantar when it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1734. The observatory stands today as one of the largest stone sundial complexes worldwide. Multiple measurement tools at this location provided both temporal assessment and accurate tracking of space entities and eclipse forecast methods. Jantar Mantar gives stargazers unique access to historic astronomical methods while it stimulates their interest in space exploration today. 3. Clear Skies During Winter Months The limited moisture content and lower air pollution rates make the period from October to February one of the best times for seeing clear skies throughout Jaipur. The perfect opportunity to observe night skies and outer space becomes available due to these environmental factors which minimize light scattering while amplifying the visibility of celestial objects such as stars, planets and faint galaxies. The winter months in Jaipur attract many enthusiasts who seek beautiful views of the Milky Way along with exploding meteors like the Geminids and Perseids by visiting open spaces and hilltops near the city. 4. Proximity to Dark Sky Areas The urban center of Jaipur creates congestion but local rural and semi-rural areas enable stargazers to quickly avoid city-based light pollution. Nahargarh Fort sits atop the Aravalli Hills allowing visitors to view the stars from its elevated position that remains free of city illumination. Amateur astronomers who bring telescopes for stargazing will discover optimal conditions for celestial images at locations around Amber Fort and Galta Ji Temple since artificial lights create minimal disturbance. 5. Modern Astronomical Facilities The city of Jaipur has started adopting contemporary technology as a tool to inspire astronomical interest in its residents. The Jawaharlal Nehru Planetarium organizes repeated workshops together with sky observation programs and space science education initiatives to grow interest in space subjects. These facilities use advanced telescopes together with projection systems to lead visitors through space exploration of planets, moons and distant stars. Both amateur and professional astronomers find Jaipur because of these initiatives to be their gathering point. 6. Cultural Celebrations Aligned with Celestial Events Three major celestial events make up the list of celebrations that unite residents of Jaipur in their festivities. Makar Sankranti is celebrated in January to mark the sun's movement into Capricorn which indicates that winter has ended. Due to tradition Karva Chauth ceremonies include observing the moon ascent during its rituals. Local cultural traditions demonstrate how astronomy plays a vital role in indigenous customs while enabling stargazing participants to understand traditional practices related to celestial observation. 7. Thriving Community of Amateur Astronomers Amateur astronomers in Jaipur keep growing in number while leading stargazing events as well as educational workshops and community outreach activities. The Astronomical Society of India (ASI) and local astronomy clubs join forces with schools and colleges and public institutions to disseminate knowledge about cosmic wonders in the universe. The astronomers organize multiple events that include public star parties together with eclipse observations and presentations from professional astronomy experts. Through its community of supporters Jaipur maintains a favorable environment which encourages both novices and experienced amateur astronomers to engage with astronomy. Conclusion Jaipur offers stargazers an ideal atmosphere because it unites its historical heritage with geographical benefits and contemporary technological development. The city provides unlimited possibilities for observing the stars starting with the historic Jantar Mantar building and ending with the clear nighttime sky surrounding the entire area. The city of Jaipur delivers a distinctive opportunity which enables both astronomy experts and casual astrophysics enthusiasts to discover science while absorbing cultural heritage. A growing number of visitors understand Jaipur's potential to be an astronomical observatory which solidifies its status both as the Pink City and as an interstellar gateway.
India.com
10-06-2025
- Science
- India.com
Discover Why Udaipur City Is A Stargazer's Dream Destination
The touristic town of Udaipur goes beyond its reputation for lakes and royal architecture because visitors from all walks of life choose it as their vacation destination. The city reserves a particular spot in the affections of both stargazers and astronomy lovers. Udaipur found its position in the Indian state of Rajasthan surrounded by Aravalli Hills that create perfect conditions for sky observation at night. Seven indispensable characteristics make Udaipur an ideal location for stargazers according to science. 1. Minimal Light Pollution Udaipur functions as a perfect location for stargazers because its darkness is preserved through low levels of light pollution. Udaipur strikes a perfect equilibrium between the growth of urban development projects and its untampered natural environment. Natural impediments consisting of lakes and surrounding hills prevent artificial light from spreading excessively to preserve Udaipur's open and vibrant night sky view. Instrument operation becomes easier for amateur astronomers together with experts because intense city lights do not interfere with their celestial observations. 2. Presence of the Jantar Mantar Observatory The Jantar Mantar observatory ranks among India's most famous astronomical facilities which exists in Udaipur. During the early 18th century Maharana Jai Singh II established the Jantar Mantar as an ancient observatory intended to precisely predict eclipses along with tracking celestial motions and time measurement. Jantar Mantar maintains its primary affiliation with Jaipur while the Udaipur section of this landmark demonstrates how astronomy connected to this region historically. People who visit these architectural structures can learn about classical methods of space observation alongside exploring the buildings. 3. The Udaipur Solar Observatory (USO) Astronomers from throughout the world visit Udaipur Solar Observatory (USO) which stands on an island inside Fateh Sagar Lake. The Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad founded USO in 1975 to perform advanced solar research on sunspots and flares and coronal mass ejections. Due to its waterfront location the observatory experiences reduced atmospheric impact that produces flawless Sun images. Most daily guests are unable to enter the observatory but its presence demonstrates the vital role Udaipur plays in present-day astronomy research. 4. Favorable Weather Conditions Stargazing opportunities exist throughout most months in Udaipur due to its pleasant climate conditions. The arid conditions of Rajasthan bring about fewer nighttime clouds than other Indian territories. The winter season from October to February brings perfect atmospheric clarity which allows viewers to observe celestial bodies including star patterns and planets and meteor showers that include Geminids and Perseids. His optimal viewing opportunities provide astronomers at every skill level with exceptional opportunities to discover universe wonders. 5. Proximity to the Aravalli Range Udaipur stands enclosed by the Aravalli Hills which form elevated positions for watching stars since these ranges represent one of Earth's oldest mountain chains. A number of elevated positions across the hills provide uninterrupted views of the night sky because buildings and tree cover do not obstruct these locations. People from Udaipur along with visitors use Monsoon Palace (Sajjangarh) and Karni Mata Temple on Machla Magra Hill as their preferred spots to view the night sky because of their clear views. Elevated observatory points create optimal viewing conditions to fully immerse people who observe the stars. 6. Cultural Significance of Astronomy Astronomy history goes beyond scientific study in Rajasthan as its cultural origins remain significant throughout the territory but especially in Udaipur. Rajput rulers supported science and art in their time and organized the study of celestial bodies for religious needs and navigation and agriculture purposes. During present times Makar Sankranti together with Diwali continue to preserve their astronomical foundation. Udaipur residents combine a respectful attitude toward the cosmos with their cultural appreciation for astronomy to welcome astronomy lovers visiting the area. 7. Tourism Infrastructure Supporting Stargazing The tourist facilities in Udaipur serve both astronomy enthusiasts along with other types of visitors. The hotels and resorts situated by lakes provide balconies with telescope equipment that allows their guests to observe the stars during nighttime. The local tour operators guide their guests through night-sky expeditions which allow participants to learn about stellar patterns and celestial bodies under the direction of expert astronomy-focused guides. Udaipur's initiatives make resources available to visitors who need assistance in comprehending the celestial wonders seen above the city. Conclusion Udaipur stands brilliantly as a top destination for astronomers because of its limited polluting light levels together with perfect weather patterns and its historical astronomical traditions and its contemporary facilities including the Udaipur Solar Observatory. The town welcomes both beginners who use basic telescopes for sky viewing and experts who need complex data because it hosts opportunities for everyone. The reflective lakes of Udaipur with their starry skies convert every observer into a believer of its cosmic reputation as a lovers' haven. Take your telescopic equipment along with star charts to begin a star-gazing expedition that will stay in your memory forever throughout this Rajasthan mystic region.
India.com
09-06-2025
- India.com
7 Stunning Clifftop Locations For Stargazing You Must Visit Near Bengaluru
The Indian city known as Bengaluru officially serves as the 'Silicon Valley of India' and stands out because of its technological complex and lively way of life and active evening social scene. The urban landscape of Bengaluru extends to numerous unique natural settings which offer perfect viewpoints for star watchers. Several hidden cliffs beyond Bengaluru city limits allow you to view stunning night sky vistas which remain untouched by urban light pollution. Seven hidden clifftop locations exist near Bengaluru that enable anyone from amateur stargazers to star viewers to experience mesmerizing celestial sights. 1. Nandi Hills: A Classic Favorite Nandi Hills stands as the leading spot for stargazing in this area at a 60-kilometer distance from Bengaluru. This hill station reaches 4,851 feet above sea level and presents breathtaking views of valleys underneath along with clean astronomical night sky observations. The protected environment of this location provides excellent dark conditions which enable viewers to witness celestial visions including both constellations and planets and meteor showers when the Perseids or Geminids seasons are active. One can experience fresh air from the sloping meadows while lying on the grass to witness the Milky Way illuminate the sky. 2. Savandurga: A Majestic Monolith The granite monolith formations of Savandurga stand near Bengaluru at a distance of around 60 kilometers west of the city. The historical fortress site in addition to its cultural value provides amazing opportunities for watching celestial objects and stars against the dark background of the night sky. Visitors can reach elevated positions here to view the brilliant night sky because the challenging terrain blocks out urban light pollution. When the moon shines in its full state throughout the night, the cliffs at Savandurga become a magical spot that draws photography lovers together with stargazers. 3. Skandagiri Hills: Mystical Beauty Under the Stars The trekking trails with ancient ruins at Skandagiri Hills exist approximately 70 kilometers outside Bengaluru. Visitors from various backgrounds choose this summit for its complete visibility of the night sky because they consider it one of their most desired destinations. Camping under the stars delivers a memorable experience at this location since the open sky displays multiple stars and planets alongside shooting stars. At this peaceful mountain area you can deepen your connection with nature while communing with the universe because of its peaceful setting. 4. Ramanagara: The Land of Boulders The southern Bengaluru district holds Ramanagara where Sholay made it famous as a location about 50 kilometers southwest of the city. The area stands out due to its extensive rocky formations which create a distinct environment for watching stars as well as boulders that cover its terrain. The sparse population of this area produces barely any artificial light that would spoil star-gazing views so astronomers find it perfect to study celestial formations. The top of large boulders provides a better observation point because it heightens your horizon view of rising stars and far-off galaxies. 5. Devarayanadurga: A Spiritual Retreat Beneath the Stars The twin temples Yoganarasimha and Bhoga Narasimha exist in Devarayanadurga about 70 kilometers from Bengaluru where visitors can admire panoramic views of the plains. The elevated position at the peak creates ideal star viewing opportunities particularly when cold winter weather produces clean air conditions. A transformative experience occurs when you climb these temple steps because the city sounds vanish into peaceful ambience which prepares you for an enchanting stargazing experience. 6. Chikballapur: Off the Beaten Path Those who journey to Chikballapur from Bengaluru by covering 70 kilometers northeast will find private places ideal for stargazing. Numerous small hillocks and open fields in the district lack enough artificial light to damage the natural darkness of the area. The combination of peaceful lake waters along with wide open skies makes Muddenahalli Lake an excellent location for stargazing. Under starlit clear nights the stars reflect across the lake water to create an enchanting double image of celestial objects in the sky. 7. Antharagange: Caves and Constellations Antharagange stands as 'Ganges from Within' due to its somewhat hidden nature near Bengaluru at a 70-kilometer distance. The hill range contains natural caves as well as waterfalls and dense vegetation that create a peaceful environment to escape city life. Starry expanses become more visible under natural dark conditions at night. Anyone who wishes to witness a unique stargazing experience must visit Antharagange because its geological formations harmonize perfectly with celestial wonders. Tips for an Unforgettable Stargazing Experience The following recommendations will help you achieve the best experience when visiting cliff-secluded locations : Before your visit consult the lunar calendar to select nights that occur during or after the new moon when skies stay the darkest. The necessary equipment includes both binoculars and a telescope (if available) along with warm clothing and drink and food items together with plenty of water. You can easily identify constellations and planets through the usage of stargazing applications SkyView and Stellarium which are available for download. The practice of respecting nature means you should both pack all your waste for removal and never interrupt natural wildlife in their habitat. When venturing outdoors for stargazing bring safety items such as informing someone about your plans along with a flashlight that includes red light mode for preserving night vision while you carefully walk on uneven grounds. Final Thoughts Natural landscapes surrounding Bengaluru create ideal conditions for people who want to observe stars. The tourism destinations of Nandi Hills and Skandagiri and Antharagange offer separate enchantment and fascination to visitors. These concealed cliff observation points serve the astronomers and ordinary stargazers alike to discover space's secrets through their unique vantage points. You should pick your equipment and escape urban life to witness the starlight which will open stunning and marvelous experiences.
India.com
29-05-2025
- India.com
The Best Hidden Clifftop Views For Stargazing Near Mysuru
Mysuru stands as the cultural center of Karnataka state while earning fame for its royal architecture and traditional cultural activities. Mysuru holds both an urban charm and untouched natural attractions that transform it into an excellent stargazing location for astronomy fans. The city of Mysuru enables stargazing by offering select cliff locations that face little light pollution allowing chaotic views of space. The following list presents seven secluded locations which deliver extraordinary star-gazing perspectives near Mysuru. 1. Chamundi Hills: A Convenient Escape Within a 13-kilometer distance from Mysuru city lies Chamundi Hills which represents one of the easiest places to observe stars. The main attraction on Chamundi Hills is the Chamundeshwari Temple while visitors find peace in this location because it exists outside Mysuru's city center. The lack of powerful artificial lights during clear evenings gives observers stunning opportunities to see stars from Orion and Cassiopeia as well as watch the Milky Way. The stargazing venue is available both by hiking trails and by vehicle parking at the summit which appeals to casual observers alongside families. 2. Biligiriranga (BR) Hills Wildlife Sanctuary: Nature's Observatory The BR Hills area within 80 kilometers southeast of Mysuru doubles as an important biodiversity hot spot and an ideal place for people who want to observe stars. The sanctuary exists at more than 5000 feet elevation where visitors can see throughout the night sky because the area does not have city lights. During winter weeks spectators can view Jupiter and Saturn most clearly thanks to the skies becoming crystal-clear at this location. The combination of camping among the stars with the surrounding vegetation enhances the adventurous ambiance of your nighttime observatory session. 3. Nugu Dam: Tranquility Amidst Water and Sky Nugu Dam provides a rarely-seen combination of peaceful surroundings and celestial sky views in the district about 35 kilometers south of Mysuru. The absence of artificial lights from surrounding forests and the extensive reservoir enables perfect viewing conditions during meteor showers including Perseids and Geminids. Photographers and nature lovers especially love this location because the water surface reflects starlight in a way that creates a magical atmosphere. 4. Kabini Backwaters The Kabini backwaters near Mysuru stand at approximately 90 kilometers from the city and serve as an outstanding area for observing the stars and night sky. The Nagarhole National Park maintains this region as an untouched area to prevent urban factors from creating disturbances. From your calming position by the undisturbed waterbody you can experience the natural sounds playing through the night sky and thousands of stars from your vantage point. The night skies in this location allow observers to easily identify nebulae and galaxies using telescope or binocular viewing. 5. Melkote: Spiritual Serenity Under the Stars The small town of Melkote is situated at a 50-kilometer distance from Mysuru where visitors get to experience traditional temples along with spiritual scenery. The stars create an enchanting show because of the high elevation around the town of Melkote. The skies of Melkote become illuminated with starlight during religious festival evenings when village gatherings conclude at night. The tranquil setting at this location creates an ideal atmosphere for all visitors who want to experience both spiritual and astronomical elements. 6. Bandipur Tiger Reserve: Wilderness and Wonder Combined Bandipur Tiger Reserve exists about 80 kilometers south of Mysuru and serves as a second location to observe distant wilderness with the universe. The elevated protected location of this reserve functions as a natural dark space exposing viewers to an absolute clarity of starlight. Your choice between forest guesthouses camping and eco-lodges accommodation provides the perfect blend for experiencing both the natural wildlife encounters alongside cosmic viewing in a completely unique adventure. 7. Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta: The Highest Point in the Region Standing at 1,450 meters above sea level, Himavad Gopalaswamy Betta reaches the highest point of Chamarajanagar district where it rests about 60 kilometers outside Mysuru. The forested hill turns into a perfect spot for star watchers when evening arrives because of its smooth grasslands and morning fog. The elevation at this peak provides excellent visibility for observing the sky because of the unblocked horizon views. The pleasant wind and unlimited starry sky create a mystical environment which seems unreal. Tips for Stargazing Near Mysuru The following guidelines will help you enjoy unobstructed views from these hidden clifftop observations points: The visibility for night viewing improves when you plan your visits during new moon phases due to darker skies. The importance of bringing a telescope together with binoculars and star charts with a red-light flashlight to maintain night vision cannot be forgotten. During evenings you must prepare with appropriate clothes since altitude benefits necessitate warmth. Layered clothing is recommended. Local guidelines apply to these protected areas since they offer camping facilities and waste management requirements. Final Thoughts The Mysuru vicinity displays multiple environments which welcome tourists of all interest profiles especially people obsessed with star gazing. The unique cosmic views of space become accessible through two distinct spots which include Chamundi Hills' sacred slopes and the untamed wildlands of Bandipur Tiger Reserve. When you move past the city limits you discover Mysuru acts as an entry point to both its cultural heritage and its interminable cosmic wonders. Equipped with your equipment you should shield yourself from the night's shadows while experiencing the cosmic display that Mysuru's surroundings provide.
