Mark Your Calendar: The Most Notable Astronomical Events Happening in 2022
- Written by
- On Wednesday, January 12, 2022
The opportunity to take some time to unplug, relax, and appreciate the beauty of nature is one of the best aspects of cabin living. And the cosmos offer some of the most majestic, awe-inspiring beauty that nature has to offer.
The night sky stays busier than you might imagine, hosting all kinds of astronomical events that make for an unforgettable evening under the stars. But oftentimes, these events are fast and fleeting, with some only occurring once in a lifetime, so if you want to make the most of the night sky's performances, mark your calendar well ahead of time so they don't pass you by.
From total lunar eclipses to majestic meteor showers, these are the must-see astronomical events happening in 2022.
Quadrantid Meteor Shower, January 3, 2022
Kicking off 2022 is the Quadrantid meteor shower, which will be active for about a month from December, 2021, to January, 2022, but the most meteors are expected to show up on January 3rd, right around nightfall. If you live in a climate that lends itself to camping in January, this shower will offer the perfect backdrop for your outdoor getaway.
Jupiter & Venus, April 24 - May 7, 2022
Ever wanted to see two of the brightest planets hanging out next to each other? Then set your alarm for about a half an hour before sunrise on any day between April 24th and May 7th, at which time you'll be able to easily see Jupiter and Venus next to each other over the eastern horizon.
Total Lunar Eclipse, May 15-16, 2022
On May 15th, you can check out a total lunar eclipse beginning at around 10:30 pm ET, with totality happening around 11:30 pm ET. But if you live on the west coast, the eclipse will start around 7:30 pm your time, which means the eclipsing moon will likely look orange, adding to its majestic beauty.
Five Planets & the Moon, June 19-27, 2022
Beginning around June 19th and ending about a week later, you'll be able to see up to five planets neatly lined up in formation (cue Beyonce). Mercury will be the lowest in the sky, followed by Venus, Mars, and Jupiter, with Saturn being the highest. And if you have a telescope, you'll actually be able to see six planets, with Uranus sneakily nestled above Saturn.
Saturn at Opposition, August 14, 2022
On August 14th, Saturn will be at full opposition, meaning it will be directly opposite the Sun, rising at sunset and setting at sunrise. That means you'll be able to see the ringed planet at its brightest and best throughout the whole night. With a telescope, you'll even be able to see Saturn's famous rings.
Total Lunar Eclipse, November 8, 2022
If you missed the total lunar eclipse in May, you'll get another chance to check one out on November 8th. This time, however, it will start much later, with totality starting around 5:15 am ET, so folks on the East Coast might miss its completion, which will occur around sunrise. But West Coasters should be able to catch the full show.
Geminid Meteor Shower, December 13-14, 2022
2022 will end the same way it started: with a gorgeous meteor shower. The Geminid meteor shower will take place during the night of December 13th. The Geminids are particularly well known for producing a ton of shooting stars, so this is a great time to plan that camping trip you've been putting off or make a trip to your cabin retreat. You could see as many as 120 meteors per hour if you're far away from city lights.
If you love the great outdoors, check out all cabin homes for sale to find your dream getaway today.
