Gaze up: Noteworthy astronomical events of January 2024
A celestial spectacle for those who enjoy the night sky is promised this January as various astronomical events are set to take place. This month invites us to see the wonders of the universe from an earthly perspective, with events ranging from planetary alignments to meteor showers. Stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts take note of these astronomical events happening in January 2024.
Quadrantids meteor shower on January 4
The Quadrantids meteor shower is linked to the asteroid EH1, which orbits the Sun in about 5.5 years. The peak of this spectacular sky show is forecasted for January 4, around 4:00 pm IST. This suggests that the best viewing windows will occur at dawn on January 4 and after the radiant's rise on January 5.
New moon on January 11
On the night of January 11, the Moon won't be visible in the sky since it will be on the same side of the planet as the Sun. This phase starts at 11:59 UTC (5:29 pm IST). Because there isn't any moonlight to obstruct your view, it is the best time of the month to observe faint objects like star clusters and galaxies.
Saturn and the Moon will come close on January 14
This month, the Moon and Saturn will be "dancing," with the former appearing to hover over the latter on January 14. The next night, Saturn will be above the moon. With that, on both nights, at approximately 6:40 am IST, it is best to observe the sky and catch a view of this celestial event. The duo will be visible to the naked eye.
Jupiter and the Moon will come close on January 17
Jupiter will be positioned to the left of Earth's natural satellite on January 17 and below it on January 18, when the moon is in its waxing gibbous phase. Throughout the month, one can witness the luminous gas giant as it rises in the southeast sky at the beginning of daylight. Astrophotographers don't miss out on capturing some stunning shots of this one.
