September Rare Astronomy Events: Harvest Moon, Closer Planet Sightings to Unfold This Month

Astronomy lovers should not miss the much-awaited astronomical events this September. People can see the amazing view of the Harvest Moon, bright Mercury and Neptune and the month's Equinox.

It is best to prepare the calendar and your camera so you will not miss the amazing sightings in the night skies.

In the early weeks of September, astronomy lovers saw the magnificent displays of the Aurigid Meteor Shower, showing six meteor showers per hour. The peak of the Perseid Meteor Showers also unfolded in the night skies.

Harvest Moon

The Old Farmer's Almanac reported that the Harvest Moon would become noticeable from September 28 to 30. It is expected to reach its peack on September 29.

The Harvest Moon helps the farmers have light when harvesting their crops or agricultural products. For some farmers, the Harvest Moon signifies possible abundance.

With the spectacular sightings in September, people should also check the weather conditions. Rainy conditions and cloudy skies could affect the best viewing.

The Venus will show unusually brighter

According to the report, people can see the unusual brightness of planet Venus on September 18. Reports showed that Venus is considered hotter than Mercury due to the high concentration of carbon dioxide.

In addition, the planet is known to be the second-brightest, which is noticeable during the day.

Great time to view Neptune

Neptune at opposition can become noticeable on September 19, 2023. From the word itself, the Sun and Neptune will be found to be on opposite sides.

Astronomy lovers can also consider using telescopes or binoculars to view Neptune's brightness better.

Unlike other planets, Neptune is windy and cold, with surroundings of thick fog of ammonia and methane. It is also known as one of the distant planets from the Sun.

September Equinox in the Northern Equinox

On September 23 (6:50 UTC or 1:50 a.m. CDT), the month's Equinox will begin, also popularly known as Autumnal Equinox. It marks the autumn's first day, beginning when the Sun reaches the celestial equator.

According to the report, the term equinox is derived from the following words in Latin:

• Aequus or equal
• Nox or night

Meanwhile, the arrival of the September equinox could also indicate that the winter will soon arrive, helping to ease the scorching heat during the summer season.

The bright view of Mercury

On September 23, astronomy lovers could see better the planet Mercury, showing the brightest appearance, which is best to view before sunrise.

Mercury is the smallest planet, orbiting closest to the Sun. The said planet has the shortest year because of the speed at which it travels.

NASA has been studying Mercury and possible life on the planet. NASA missions were deployed to the planet to understand it more.

For more similar stories, don't forget to follow Nature News.