Ten Dazzling Celestial Events to See in 2022

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Nora McGreevy Daily Correspondent

Despite another chaotic year on planet Earth, 2021 was a great time for amateur astronomers. Earthbound spectators witnessed a spectacular “ring of fire” solar eclipse, enjoyed exceptionally dark skies for the annual Perseid meteor shower and were treated to a surprise comet “Leonard” that streaked through the December sky. With any luck, another comet might become visible as it cruises through our solar system in 2022. And amateur stargazers can also view a host of meteor showers and lunar events with nothing more than a pair of binoculars, good weather and a patch of unpolluted night sky. To help you set your calendar, we’ve rounded up the ten most significant celestial events that viewers in North America can hope to glimpse in the new year.

March 24 to April 5: A Planetary Trio

While the stars appear relatively stationary from Earth, our solar system’s planets appear to dance around the night sky throughout the year. Look to the southeastern horizon just before the sun rises in late March through early April, and you might spot this tri-planetary tango: Venus, Mars and Saturn will cluster unusually close together. (These are three of the five planets, together with Jupiter and Mercury, that humans can see with the naked eye.)

For best viewing, locate a dark sky spot near you and pick a vantage point with few obstructions along the southeast horizon. To find the planets, start at the bright star Altair (in the constellation of Aquila the eagle) and follow a line straight down to a cluster of three bright objects near the horizon. You’ll be able to track the trio each night as Saturn appears to drift closer to Mars. As Andrew Fazekas reports for National Geographic, that pair will draw the closest on the dawn of April 4, when Mars and Saturn will be separated by just half a degree of an arc—about the width of a full moon. Venus will be just to their east.

April 30 to May 1: Venus-Jupiter Conjunction

Spring will be a busy season for planetary meetups. In the early morning hours before dawn on April 30 through May 1, the bright, reddish Jupiter will appear to rise within a hair’s breadth of the yellow-white Venus. Look to the southeast about an hour before sunrise for the best view of the close conjunction. And for an extra early treat, according to EarthSky, viewers on the morning of April 27 will also be able to catch a glimpse of the waxing moon hanging close to the duo.

May 5: Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower

In the hour or two before dawn—around 4 a.m. local time, wherever you are in the world—look to the eastern horizon for the constellation of Aquarius. (Stargazing apps or star charts can come in handy here.) Be patient, and you’ll likely see more than a handful of shooting stars, which are predicted to rain down at rates of about 10 to 20 meteors per hour. Those who can’t hunt for shooting stars on the morning of the May 5 might also be able to catch some stray fireballs near dawn on May 4 or 6, according to EarthSky.

These meteors are one of two showers that occur when Earth passes through the trail of dust and debris left behind by Halley’s Comet. (The other is the Orionids, a smaller shower that peaks in October each year.) This famous ball of ice and dirt has blazed into our field of vision several times in recorded history. In 1066, a likeness of the fireball was stitched into the Bayeux Tapestry. It’s returned about every 75 years since and will next appear in mid-2061.

May 15-16: Total Lunar Eclipse

Viewers across the United States will be able to marvel at part or the duration of a total lunar eclipse—when the Earth’s shadow completely covers the moon—in mid-May, depending on their location. (Check this map to figure out the optimal time for viewing based on location.) At peak eclipse, the moon will reflect only the sun’s rays that are passing through Earth’s dusty atmosphere. The atmosphere will scatter out most of the sun’s blue light—bathing the eclipsed moon in a familiar blood-red glow.

June 14: The First Supermoon of the Year

Supermoons happen when the moon is full at its perigee, or the place in its orbit that it is closest to Earth. This positioning makes the moon appear even bigger than normal, reports Brian Lada for Accuweather.com. (The close approach can make the moon appear up to 14 percent bigger and 30 percent brighter to viewers on Earth than the faintest moon of the year, which occurs at the moon’s apogee, per NASA.) Three supermoons in a row will appear this summer, beginning with one on June 14 and followed by ones on July 13 and August 12. June’s full moon will rise in the southeast around 9 p.m. Eastern time for East Coast stargazers, and stay visible in the sky until the next morning.

June 19-27: Five—Maybe Six—Planets in a Row

Early risers have the chance to spot a rare alignment of planets in mid-to-late June, as Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn line up in a dazzling row across North American skies. For the best chance to see all five planets in the night sky at once, look to the southeast horizon in the morning twilight. Venus and Jupiter should be the brightest things in the sky. Use a stargazing app or star chart to locate the other planets, which should be arranged in a diagonal line, beginning with Mercury low on the eastern horizon and Saturn high in the south. A crescent waning moon will also join the lineup most mornings. As National Geographic notes, the five planets all stand out for being visible to the naked human eye. But those with a telescope and minimal light pollution might also spot a sixth planet, the icy giant Uranus, which hangs a bit higher than Venus and appears as a bright greenish dot.

July 28-9: Delta Aquariid Meteor Shower

This meteor shower is best viewed from the southern United States or South America, according to EarthSky. Get up in the hours before dawn to catch about 10 to 20 meteors per hour shoot across the night sky. Much like the Eta Aquariids, these showers will appear to radiate from the constellation of Aquarius—whose name is Latin for “the water bearer.” This year’s shower will coincide with a new moon, which should offer lucky stargazers the darkest skies and the best chances of witnessing a few fireballs.

August 11-3: Perseid Meteor Shower

Amateur and seasoned stargazers alike across North America look forward to the Perseids every year for a reliably spectacular show. The colorful fireballs appear to radiate from the constellation of Perseus, named after the legendary Greek hero.

Typical shows boast a rate of 150 to 200 meteors per hour—but unfortunately, the peak days of this year’s shower will coincide with the nearly or entirely full moon, which will brighten the night sky significantly and drown out some of the show. To make the most of the night, wait to stargaze until two or three hours before dawn—after the moon has set, but before the sun’s rays start peeking over the horizon.

November 8: Total Lunar Eclipse

A second total lunar eclipse will cap off the year, starting at around 3 a.m. Eastern time on the morning of November 8. Those along the East Coast will be treated to the full eclipse from start to finish, while those in the West and Midwest will be able to catch a partial show. Look closely at the reddish light reflecting off the moon’s surface during total eclipse: According to NASA, the moon’s rosy hue is the result of the sun’s rays bending around Earth and filtering through its dusty atmosphere. Earth’s shadow blocks out all light except these few rays peeking around its edges—so, in other words, the only light reflecting off the moon represents “all the world’s sunrises and sunsets” happening on Earth at the moment of eclipse.

December 13-14: Geminid Meteor Shower

Those disappointed by the Perseids in 2022 might plan instead on catching the winter Geminids, which appear to radiate from Gemini, the “twins” constellation best identified by its bright stars Castor and Pollux. This show is the result of 3200 Phaethon, a strange hybrid between an asteroid and a comet that orbits the sun every 1.4 years and leaves a trail of dust and rocks in its wake.

This annual show could produce up to 120 to 160 meteors per hour under optimal conditions. (Together, the Perseids and Geminids are the most highly anticipated and most spectacular annual meteor showers each year, per the New York Times.)

A last-quarter waxing moon coincides with the shower’s peak nights this year, but it won’t last the whole night. Look at the constellation Gemini before midnight on the night of December 13, before the moon rises, to avoid the worst of the moon’s light pollution. Or, early risers can scan the skies in the pre-dawn hours of the next night after the moon has set.

Wolf Moon, first full moon of 2022, lights up our night sky

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The eruption of Hunga-Tonga-Hunga-Ha’apai volcano, which sits on the seismically active Pacific Ring of Fire, sent tsunami waves across the Pacific Ocean and was heard as far away as New Zealand.

Lunar Bloodlust: New Study Suggests Shark Attacks Increase During Full Moon Nights

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From time immemorial, a full moon has been credited for some strange animal behaviour or other—most of them mythical. One very popular folklore is that when the moon is in its full phase, man turns into a beast known as a “werewolf”. We’re sure you’ve already pictured a half-human/half-wolf creature with long fangs and longer claws howling away at the moon from the edge of a cliff.

And while this is nothing but hare-brained, sensationalised drivel, there have been some instances where animals have shown specific changes in behaviour during a full moon. For example, a full moon has been associated with glow-in-the-dark scorpions, agitation in avian species, howling of dogs, etc.

Now, a new study has shown that there might exist a link between moon phases and shark attacks.

Researchers from the Louisiana State University and the University of Florida suggest that the frequency of shark attacks increases during fuller moon phases. While the exact cause remains unclear, the researchers found that more shark attacks than average occur during periods of higher lunar illumination, while fewer attacks than average occur during periods of lower brightness.

Representational Image. (NOAA)

Now you might think that this might have more to do with the increased illumination during a full moon, as this would afford the sharks with better vision and allow them to spot and attack their prey.

But Steve Midway, LSU associate professor and researcher on the project, seems to think otherwise.

Advertisement “It’s not a matter of more light at night for sharks to see. Most shark attacks occur in the daylight. However, the moon can exert other forces on Earth and its oceans in ways that are much more subtle—for example, the gravitational pull that we see affect the tides,” he says.

The researchers have based their conclusions on a global shark attack record called the ‘International Shark Attack File’ compiled during a 55-year period from 1960 to 2015, which is maintained at the University of Florida’s Florida Museum of Natural History. This account of shark attacks worldwide and over decades found a striking association between moon phases and shark attacks.

The causes for such a phenomenon remain unknown, and experts think it is still too early to prove that lunar illumination is a significant factor in shark attacks.

However, this new data provides a foundation for a better knowledge of shark attacks that could be valuable in developing recommendations for water-based recreational activities in the future. The volume of data researchers possess suggests that there is something worth continuing to look at, Midway believes.

The research was recently published in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science, and can be accessed here.

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Why Does The Moon Shine? Talk Radio News

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Our Earth is a part of a giant solar system, consisting of the Sun and several other planets, revolving unanimously around the Sun. Most planets in the solar system have several natural satellites, for instance, Jupiter has 79 moons revolving around it.

Our Earth only has one natural satellite of its own – The Moon. We are aware that the Sun is an illuminating body that is capable of generating light energy on its own. The Moon, however, is not capable of producing light on its own.

Yet, we notice that the moon shines lusciously on a full moon night. How is that even possible? Well, to find out, you need to stick around, until the end of this blog!

The Moon has no light of its own. It reflects the light from the Sun, causing it to look like a shiny, luminescent celestial body in the night sky.

What Are Natural Satellites?

The Universe is diverse as well as fascinating. Our solar system is just like a tiny speck of dust amidst the expansive Universe. These satellites are non-made or sent to outer space by man to collect relevant research information.

There are several sorts of distinctive celestial bodies present in the Universe, natural satellites being one of them. Natural satellites are stellar objects that are present in the solar system. These bodies generally revolve around larger bodies, such as giant planets.

Natural satellites can be categorized into moons, dwarf planets as well as minor planets that revolve around the Sun. Our solar system alone contains over 240 natural satellites, out of which 163 satellites are revolving around the major planets.

The Science Behind Moon’s Shine

As we know, there are two kinds of objects – ones that can emit light on their own and ones that cannot. Objects that cannot produce light by themselves are fairly capable of reflecting light from other luminant sources.

Planets and moons are incapable of producing their own light. The only reason we can see them is due to the light that reflects upon hitting their surface. When it comes to our solar system, the Sun is the strongest source of light available.

Now, the amount of light that will reflect from a specific celestial surface depends on the amount of incident light falling on it. Other than that, the surface type, presence of an atmosphere, or surface roughness can be crucial factors.

Keeping this insight, the Moon’s reflective capability is a lot less as compared to other planets such as the Earth, which has an atmosphere. However, it is situated in close proximity to the Earth which makes it look a lot more luminescent and shiny!

What is the Moon Made of?

Like most rocky planets, a large portion of the moon’s composition consists of rocks and heavy metals.

The outer surface of the moon, also known as the Moon’s crust, is about 50 kilometers deep. This layer is covered by lunar soil and is scientifically termed as “Regolith”.

Since the moon does not have an atmosphere to protect its outer surface, solar flares cause the bigger rock particles to break down into tiny particles, which make up the lunar soil. Some of these rocks contain higher percentages of elements like oxygen and silicon.

The crust region of the moon also contains heavy metals like aluminum, iron, and titanium.

What is a Lunar Eclipse?

A lunar eclipse is one of the favorite celestial events for the ones who love to watch the night sky. The Earth, like all other planets in the solar system, revolves around the Sun. Similarly, the Moon revolves around the Earth.

At some points during the revolution, the Sun, the Moon as well as the Earth come in a straight line in such a position that the Earth comes directly in between the Sun and the Moon.

Due to this occurrence, the light from the Sun does not reach the Moon. The shadow of the Earth falls on the Moon, making it dark and invisible.

Lunar eclipses can be of two types :

Partial Lunar Eclipse: During this lunar eclipse, the shadow of the Earth covers the moon partially, making it partially invisible from the Earth’s surface. Total Lunar Eclipse: During this, the shadow of the Earth completely covers the moon, making it invisible from the Earth’s surface.

When Does the Moon Shine the Brightest?

The Moon casts a soft, luscious glow on the Earth. However, one question might often cross your mind. When does the moon usually shine the brightest?

Once in every 30 days, the Moon, while revolving around the Earth, comes directly between the Sun and the Earth. This is when it receives maximum light from the Sun, reflecting almost the entirety of it.

According to scientists and researchers, this is the phase when the moon shines the brightest. This phase is popularly known as “Full Moon”.

Bottom Line

The Moon is the Earth’s nearest neighbor within this vast Universe. Who doesn’t love watching the Moon on a clear starry night, standing by their loved ones?

Mankind has been trying, for several decades now, to find a trace that would confirm the habitability factor of the Moon. Although we have discovered the presence of water on the moon, sadly no news of habitability has yet been declared.

Over time, we have successfully unraveled several mysteries that lie hidden beneath the surface of our beautiful satellite.

We have made considerable progress in understanding the moon and conquering its surface. In fact, even to this day, Neil Armstrong’s first footstep has been conserved on the regolith present on the Moon.

In this article, we tried to shed light on natural satellites, their source of luminance, the science behind the Moon’s stellar gleam, the causes of the Lunar eclipse, and much more.

If you were curious about the glorious moonlight that graces your balcony on every full moon night, we hope this article helped you understand the factors that make the moon a luscious body in the night sky!

About Town: Ride under the full moon in Club Scrub’s Group Night Ride

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Ready for a howlin’ good time?

Then don’t miss out on Club Scrub’s Group Night Ride this Saturday.

The howling part is no joke either, as this ride takes place under the full moon … the Wolf Moon!

Now if you’re thinking, “Full moon? Wolf moon? What about werewolves?” — don’t worry, they’re usually hibernating this time of year. Just kidding. No werewolves. What there is, however, is a chance to see and ride the park’s fantastic trails under the light of the silver moon.

Want to check it out, but concerned that your fitness level might not be up to snuff? No worries, there will be multiple groups based on skill and fitness levels.

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There’s the Speedster class which will ride the entire trail at 12 mph and up; the Adventure class will also ride the whole trail, but at a less leg-burning 8 mph, the Quick Explorer class will do half the trail at 7 mph and up; the Explorer class will take its time riding the Tortoise, Ranger, Fire Ring and Hare trails and the Non-Trail Riders will take a cruise down to the tower, then to the river and back.

Bike lights and helmets are required. All must be in working condition, and lights must be able to attach to helmet or handlebars.

Following the ride there will be a campfire with a hot dog and marshmallow roast.

There will also be snacks and drinks.

So bring a chair, kick back after the ride and enjoy a fun night with new and old friends.

Founded by a handful of mountain bike enthusiasts, Club Scrub is a committee of the Friends of Jonathan Dickinson State Park dedicated to the care, preservation, and promotion of the Camp Murphy MTB trails. Built on the footprint of a top-secret World War II radar training base that shares its name, it has more than 10 miles of trails that run through the scrub and over ancient sand dunes. From flowing paths to difficult climbs and jumps, there is sure to be something for everyone, beginner to advanced.

When: 5 p.m. Saturday

Where: Jonathan Dickinson State Park, 16450 SE Federal Highway, Hobe Sound

Cost: $45, register online (does not include $6 per car park entry fee)

Information: friendsofjdsp.org

Affair of the Arts returns to Boynton Beach Mall

The second annual Affair of the Arts show will be held this weekend at the Boynton Beach Mall.

Named the Best Live Event of the Year, this three-day arts and crafts show was definitely a big hit last year and is back and bigger for 2022.

There will over 300 vendors on hand including some of the finest crafters and best artists from around the country.

Centrally located in Palm Beach County, this event gives residents a great opportunity to shop during our winter season.

Held outside at the north end of the mall, there will be sunshine (hopefully) and plenty of strolling.

That strolling means exercise and that means appetites.

There will be food, beer and wine vendors on hand to handle those needs.

What: Affair of the Arts

Where: Boynton Beach Mall, 801 N. Congress Ave., Boynton Beach

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday through Sunday

Cost: Free

Information: affairoftheartsfl.com

Eddie Ritz is a journalist for The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA Today Network. He has lived in the West Palm Beach area for more than 30 years and, from mild to wild, will cover noteworthy community happenings. He can be reached at eritz@pbpost.com.