As September unfolds, stargazers can look forward to a series of remarkable celestial events, highlighted by the prominent appearance of Saturn in the evening sky. On September 1, Saturn will rise approximately one-and-a-half fists high in the southeast around 22:00. By the end of the month, its visibility will shift to 20:00, culminating with the planet reaching opposition on September 21. This phenomenon occurs when Saturn lies directly opposite the Sun, allowing it to rise around sunset and remain visible throughout the night.
During this period, those with a telescope are encouraged to observe Saturn’s rings, which will appear narrowly tipped, resembling a toothpick through an olive. The month promises other notable events, including a double conjunction of the waning crescent moon, Regulus—the brightest star in Leo—and Venus at dawn on September 19. The trio will be positioned less than one degree apart, creating a stunning visual display.
In addition to these alignments, September features both a total lunar eclipse and a partial solar eclipse. Unfortunately, neither eclipse will be visible from the Americas. The full moon occurring this month will not be the Harvest Moon, as that title will be given to October’s full moon, making this month’s full moon the Corn Moon. Despite the name change, observers can expect similar effects, with moonrises occurring roughly 20 minutes apart rather than the usual 50 minutes.
The autumnal equinox will occur on September 22 at 19:19 UTC, marking the moment when the Sun crosses the celestial equator. This event signifies the transition into autumn and is characterized by nearly equal day and night lengths.
Aquila, the Eagle, is the featured constellation for September. It will be visible in the southern sky as dusk settles, showcasing the bright star Altair, known for its association with the “Summer Triangle” formed by Altair, Deneb in the Northern Cross, and Vega in Lyra. In Greek mythology, Aquila was the thunderbird serving Zeus, adding a rich narrative layer to this constellation.
For those keen on exploring these celestial events, several resources are available. The free Stellarium Mobile app for Android and iPhone can assist users in identifying current planets and constellations. Additionally, a free September sky map and calendar can be downloaded from www.skymaps.com/downloads.html. Regular updates on auroras and other sky events are provided on Facebook.
Here are some key events to look for this month:
– **September 1**: Venus shines just below the Beehive star cluster in Cancer at dawn. Using binoculars, viewers can spot the cluster above Venus.
– **September 7**: The full Corn Moon will rise around local sunset and set the following morning.
– **September 8-30**: The International Space Station will make nightly passes across the evening sky. For specific flyover times, visitors can use Heavens-Above.com.
– **September 14**: The last quarter moon will be visible due south at sunrise.
– **September 19**: A close conjunction of the waning moon, Regulus, and Venus will occur around 1.5 hours before local sunrise.
– **September 20-30**: Zodiacal light will be visible, appearing as a softly luminous cone from the eastern horizon before sunrise.
– **September 21**: During Saturn’s opposition, it will shine at its brightest, positioned below the Great Square asterism of Pegasus.
– **September 22**: The autumn equinox will mark the beginning of autumn in the northern hemisphere.
– **September 29**: The first quarter moon will be high in the southern sky at sunset.
As September progresses, skywatchers are encouraged to keep an eye out for auroras, adding to the excitement of this month’s celestial events. Clear skies are anticipated, offering an excellent opportunity to connect with the wonders above.