Stargazers across Texas have a busy month ahead with several impressive celestial events unfolding in our night skies. Even though cooler Gulf Coast weather can bring some cloud cover, clear nights offer great viewing opportunities for anyone who enjoys looking up.
Leonid Meteor Shower
The Leonids, famous for producing some of the fastest meteors of any annual shower, remain active until November 30. The peak already passed on November 16 and 17, but a few late streaks are still possible. For the best chance of spotting them in Texas, head somewhere dark between midnight and dawn, look toward the eastern sky, and allow your eyes to adjust.
Saturn’s Narrowest Rings
For about two weeks beginning around November 19, Saturn’s majestic rings will appear the thinnest they’ve been in years. The planet is tilted in such a way that we’re seeing the rings almost edge-on. While you won’t be able to see this change with the naked eye, even a small backyard telescope will show Saturn’s rings looking unusually narrow and sleek. This is a rare viewing opportunity, and Texas skies are well-positioned for evening observations.
Geminid Meteor Shower
One of the most reliable and active meteor showers of the year, the Geminids will begin around November 19 and continue until December 24. The shower builds slowly toward its mid-December peak, but early activity can still be impressive. In Texas, the constellation Gemini rises in the northeast during the late evening, making after-midnight viewing ideal. Find a dark spot away from city lights, look high in the sky, and simply relax.
Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS
A rare treat may also be visible through telescopes: interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS. This object is not from our solar system and is passing through at high speed. Late November offers improving visibility as it moves into darker portions of the sky. You’ll need at least a medium-size telescope, but dedicated skywatchers throughout Texas should have a reasonable chance to spot it under good conditions.
Clear Skies Ahead
Whether you’re scanning for meteors or trying to catch a slim view of Saturn’s rings, the coming weeks offer a little something for everyone. Grab a jacket, find a quiet dark spot on the peninsula, and enjoy the show above.
