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In the later part of the year, stargazers can look forward to the Perseids and Geminids.
The Perseids – known for being one of the brighter annual meteor showers – will peak over Singapore between Aug 12 and Aug 13, said SCOB.
The Perseids gets its name as it comes from the same direction as the constellation Perseus.
Named after the Greek mythological hero, it is the 24th largest constellation in the night sky, said the observatory previously. The Perseids are caused when Earth passes through a trail of space debris left behind by Comet Swift-Tuttle.
Viewers can determine the direction of the shower by looking for the Perseus constellation.
The Geminids meteor shower is expected to peak on the night between Dec 13 and Dec 14.
For those who cannot afford late nights out, catch the four back-to-back supermoons – beginning in August.
While there is no official definition for the supermoon, these four full moons in August, September, October and November occur when the moon is relatively nearer to the Earth, causing it to appear brighter and more prominent, said the observatory.
The one in October will be the closest to Earth while the full moon in August – known as the Sturgeon Moon – will also be a Blue Moon as it happens to be the third full moon of the season, said SCOB.
Note that the moon’s appearance can vary depending on atmospheric conditions and viewing location.
These moons will be visible as long as there are unobstructed views, clear skies and minimal light pollution. However, take location and timing into consideration if you want the most ideal conditions.
“Generally, it is a good time to enjoy a supermoon close to moonrise or moonset, when the moon is close to terrestrial objects, trees or buildings that we are familiar with. The large apparent size of the supermoon will be more obvious when we have something to compare its size with.”
Planning to catch the next supermoon or meteor shower? Send us your photos via CNA Eyewitness or on WhatsApp.
