UPDATE: This Wednesday, November 1, 2023, the closest supermoon of the year will light up the night sky over Santa Cruz. Skywatchers should prepare for a spectacular view, especially during moonrise on Thursday, just after sunset. This event marks one of the three supermoons occurring this year, with the next set to rise on December 4.
A supermoon happens when the moon is at its closest point to Earth, making it appear significantly larger and brighter than usual. Authorities confirm that viewers can expect an extraordinary sight as the moon aligns with Saturn, which will be visible high in the sky.
Adding to the excitement, the Southern Taurid meteor shower peaks this week, offering the chance to see around five meteors per hour. Viewers are advised to look for meteors in the same vicinity as the moon. “The later in the evening, the better. This is a very minor shower, and skywatchers should not be discouraged if they don’t see a meteor,” says Jim Bahn, a member of the Santa Cruz Astronomy Club. He also notes that a much more significant meteor shower, the Geminids, is coming up in mid-December, with expected rates of up to 75 meteors per hour.
For those eager to experience this celestial spectacle, the Santa Cruz Astronomy Club is hosting a star party on December 19 at Quail Hollow Ranch County Park. Attendees will likely have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the Geminids meteor shower, along with Saturn, Jupiter, and the Orion Nebula.
This week’s supermoon is not just a visual treat; it represents a rare opportunity for community engagement and astronomical appreciation. Don’t miss out on this chance to connect with fellow skywatchers and witness a stunning natural event. Grab your binoculars and head outdoors as the night unfolds. The skies are waiting!
