Unlock the Magic of May’s Stellar Show: Your Guide to Spotting a Lion, an Upside-Down Bear, and a Mini Planet Parade!

Stargazers look forward to the new moon, which makes the sky wonderfully dark. This darkness allows us to see stars more clearly. On May 26 at 10:02 p.m. EDT, the moon will slip between the Earth and the sun, disappearing completely. It’s the perfect time to head outside and enjoy the night sky, especially from May 20 to 30.

The absence of moonlight opens up spectacular views of the stars, especially in the mid-latitudes of the Northern Hemisphere. If you’re out around 10 p.m., here’s what you can see.

The Big Dipper and Ursa Major

Most people recognize the Big Dipper. Interestingly, it’s not a constellation but an asterism within Ursa Major, the Great Bear. In May, this grouping of stars is easy to spot as it’s nearly overhead in the early evening. The three paws of the bear are marked by double stars: Alula Borealis and Australis for the front, and Talitha and Muscida for the back. This star cluster is a great starting point for budding astronomers.

Leo, the Lion

As night falls, look to the south to find Leo. Its form resembles a backward question mark. The bright star Regulus is the heart of this lion, often called the “little king.” According to EarthSky, this distinguishing feature makes Leo easy to identify from a distance.

A Planet Parade

If you can wake up early, don’t miss May 23, around 45 minutes before sunrise. A crescent moon will look dazzling beside Venus and Saturn in the east. Recent studies show that more people are enjoying early morning stargazing for a calming start to their day, as it reduces stress and boosts mood.

Boötes, the Herdsman

If you trace the Big Dipper’s handle, you’ll find Boötes, home to the bright star Arcturus. This constellation can best be seen when it resembles a “Y” shape. It’s not as well-known, but it’s prominent in the spring sky. Some people find Boötes fascinating due to its shape and the stories around it that date back to ancient cultures.

The Hercules Cluster

One of the most stunning sights is the Hercules Cluster, or M13, found in the constellation Hercules. It’s a globular cluster containing over 100,000 stars. Studies by NASA suggest that these clusters are some of the oldest objects we can see, remnants of ancient galaxies consumed by the Milky Way. With a pair of binoculars, you might catch a glimpse of this dense patch of stars in the night sky, giving insight into the history of our universe.

The thrill of stargazing connects us to ancient traditions and has a profound impact on modern well-being. As we explore the night sky, we can appreciate not just the beauty but the rich history and science behind it. So, grab a friend, head outside, and embrace the wonders above!

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