Sky notes – Page 2 – British Astronomical Association

Sky notes for 2023 August & September

The autumnal equinox on Sep 23 heralds longer evenings for observing, and we now have outer planets to enjoy on

The short nights mean frustration unless you are a solar observer. The summer solstice on Jun 21 allows a mere

On May 6, the UK marks the first coronation for 70 years, so perhaps it is appropriate to commence these

The winter days draw out slowly and reach the vernal equinox on Mar 20, followed by the arrival of

The year ends with Mars having its best apparition for the next few years. While not achieving its greatest possible

The nights lengthen, British Summer Time ends, the centre of our Milky Way galaxy dips into the south-west, and

At last, we have planets to observe at a reasonable hour for those averse to early rising. As the days

With the summer solstice occurring on Jun 21, this time of year can be regarded as the ‘silly season’ for

Life is full of compromises and for astronomers in spring, we have warmer but shorter nights. British Summer Time began

Orion sits astride the meridian at mid-evening and he is our invaluable seasonal guide. Nick explains why.