The new moon in May is here, bringing dark skies perfect for stargazing. This weekend, look for the Milky Way, vibrant spring constellations, and the dance of the planets.
The new moon happens at 4:01 p.m. EDT on May 16. During this time, the sky will be ideal for spotting celestial wonders, including nebulas and distant galaxies.
Visible Planets
At sunset, glance westward to find Venus, shining brightly like an evening star. It’s a little over 20 degrees high, about the width of two fists held at arm’s length.
Further left, Jupiter glimmers, and you can spot its four largest moons, known as the Galilean Moons: Io, Europa, Ganymede, and Callisto, discovered by Galileo Galilei. For a better view, grab a pair of binoculars.
If you’re an early riser, catch Saturn in the east before dawn, with Mars trailing below it. Both will be low in the sky and hard to see as the sun rises, so find a clear spot to watch them.
Stars and Constellations
May is also perfect for spotting constellations. Look for the majestic Leo, a constellation that seems to be on the prowl in the southwestern sky. The ancient Greek philosopher Ptolemy identified it nearly 2,000 years ago, calling it the Nemean Lion from the myth of Heracles.
Next, find Leo Minor, a smaller constellation created by Polish astronomer Johannes Hevelius. It’s located just above Leo, offering a lovely sight amidst the stars. Below it lies Lynx, a serpentine assortment of eight stars stretching across the northwestern horizon. The dark skies around the new moon make it easier to spot.
During mid-May, the heart of the Milky Way becomes visible, forming a brilliant band across the sky. Look for the bright stars Altair, Vega, and Deneb, which create the Summer Triangle. The galaxy’s dense starfield will appear spectacular against the dark backdrop.
As light pollution falls during the new moon, consider escaping city lights for the best views. Websites like DarkSky.org can help you find optimal stargazing spots.
Also, if you’re keen to capture stunning images of the night sky, check out guides on astrophotography to improve your skills.
Want to share your stargazing photos? Send them to spacephotos@space.com!
