July Astronomical Calendar Boasts Full Moon and Meteor Showers

The month of July has gotten off to a slow start in the night skies; however, things are about to pick up in the astronomical world. The first full moon of the astronomical summer and a duo of meteor showers highlight the July calendar.

Thunder Moon - July 10

Stargazers will want to check out the first full moon of the astronomical summer on Thursday, July 10. Known most commonly as the "Thunder Moon," this shining sight will be visible across most of the world given clear conditions.

The name "Thunder Moon" is a nod to the prevalence of thunderstorm activity this time of the year in North America. The summer full moon is also commonly referred to as the Buck Moon, as this is the season for deer antlers to begin to grow at a fast clip.

You will find the full moon rising in the southeastern corner of the sky at the time of nightfall. The moon will shine throughout the overcast hours before it sets to the southwest before the sun rises.

Milky Way Galaxy Viewing - End of July

The end of July is also known for its superior viewing opportunities of the Milky Way galaxy. The galaxy that we call home is more vivid in July when compared to other months of the year. This is because the nighttime side of the planet faces the core of the galaxy during July, providing more opportunities to see it in all of its splendor.

While the galaxy will be the brightest at any time during the last week of the month, you will boost the odds of seeing more if you head out on the night of July 24. This is because this is when the new moon will be present, mitigating light pollution. Heading away from other types of light pollution will help to improve the viewing experience.

Duo of Meteor Showers - July 29 and 30

A rare duo of meteor showers will light up the night skies on Tuesday, July 29, and into the early hours of Wednesday, July 30. According to the American Meteor Society (AMS), the Southern Delta Aquariids and Alpha Capricornids will combine for a total of 20 to 30 meteors each hour. There is also the chance that viewers will see the bright meteors, known in astronomical circles as fireballs.

The night of July 29 and 30 is expected to be the peak of the two showers. However, the AMS said that both showers will provide activity throughout the week. This means any night at the end of July or the beginning of August will be a good time to try to catch the shooting stars streaking across the sky. The most important factor is finding a night with clear skies.

Despite the shorter nights that distinguish the month of July, there are still plenty of opportunities for stargazers to get outside and check out the wonder of the natural world.

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