The early weeks of February will be full-packed with top astronomical events. Stargazers can see rare sightings of the moon, comet and astronomical meetups.
Stargazers should ready their calendar and cameras as February will showcase rare and unique sky sightings. Astronomical sightings are considered precious moments for stargazers.
The start of the year in the United States has been chaotic due to a barrage of severe weather conditions, tornado outbreaks and ice storms in Texas, relentless rain on the West Coast to California and heavy snow in the Northeast.
Top astronomy events in February 2023
February 19, 2019 in London, England
However, stargazers are optimistic that the weather conditions would cooperate during rare sightings.
According to AccuWeather's latest astronomy news, the beginning of February will have rare showcases of must-see astronomy events.
Although the forecast said that the sky would be cloudy, the astronomy sightings would still become visible to stargazers. The sightings could still be dramatic.
Snow Moon
AccuWeather reported that a full snow moon is expected to unleash for the first week of February 5 (1:30 p.m EST)
According to the Almanac, the snow moon refers to the full moon during February. The report noted that the Old Farmer's Almanac associates the snow moon with Native Americans and Europeans.
Almanac explained that February is a month of heavy snow and is considered the snowiest month in the U.S.
The other names or terms for the snow moon are Bear Moon, Black Bear Moon, Eagle Moon, Raccoon Moon, Groundhog Moon, Goose Moon, Hungry Moon and Month of the Bony Moon.
Rare Comet
The excitement would not end with February's snow moon. After five days, AccuWeather reported that Comet E3 ZTF was expected in the solar system.
The report said that the best sighting of the comet would be on February 10.
Meanwhile, NASA reported that Comet E3 ZTF was found using a wide-field survey camera.
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Astronomical meetup
Furthermore, February's end would showcase a unique astronomical meetup of the moon and mars. The sightings are expected on February 27.
According to AccuWeather, there is a chance to see planets Venus and Jupiter, which seem incredibly close. It would be noticeable in the final days of February.
How to prepare for astronomical sightings
Capturing the best moments is momentous for many stargazers waiting for the must-see events this February.
The forecast cloudy skies would not affect the astronomical sightings. However, rainy conditions would make it more difficult for stargazers and astronomy lovers to capture the best images.
Also Read: First Week of New Year Unfolded Full Wolf Moon in Sky
Preparing for astronomical events is essential. Here are some important reminders for astronomy lovers.
- Schedule the time and date for the best astronomy sightings.
- It is best to read your cameras or video recorders beforehand. Stargazers can also use a telescope.
- The cameras should be fully-charged and operational. It is best to bring a power bank if you lose power!
- To make the moment more enjoyable and meaningful, have your friends or family watch the astronomical sightings unfold in the sky.
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