Summer 2023: Super Moons and Perseids, astronomical events not to be missed

Published by My de Sortiraparis · Published on July 11th, 2023 at 09:50 a.m.
This summer, the sky has some superb shows in store for us. Between the Super Moons of July, August and September, and the shooting stars of the Perseids, we're in for a real treat! Get out your diary.

Astronomy fans, there's more to come this summer. After the Stag Super Moon on July 3, other major events are planned, such as the Sturgeon Super Moon in August, the Perseid shooting stars and several other Super Moons. Get ready for a summer of astronomy!

Key dates not to be missed:

  • July: In addition to the Stag Super Moon on July 3, expect the Moon to be spectacularly close to Mercury, Venus and Mars on the nights of July 19 to 21. Between July 19 and 22, several planets will be exceptionally aligned with the Moon.
  • August: A rich month with the Sturgeon Super Moon on the 1st, a shower of shooting stars at the peak of the Perseids on the 13th, and finally, the third Super Moon, the Blue Super Moon, on August 30.
  • September: The Harvest Super Moon will be the highlight of the month on the 28th.

What is a Super Moon? It's an astral phenomenon in which the full Moon coincides with its passage closest to the Earth on its orbit, a point called perigee. A Super Moon appears slightly brighter and larger than a full moon.

How to observe these phenomena Although visible to the naked eye, they can be better appreciated with binoculars or a telescope. Remember to choose a location away from light pollution for optimal viewing.

The Perseids are one of the most beautiful showers of shooting stars of the year. They reach their peak between the nights of August 12 and 13, with almost 100 shooting stars per hour. A magical spectacle not to be missed.

All in all, take the time to observe the sky this summer 2023. Look up and enjoy these marvellous spectacles offered by nature. Happy observing!

To find out more
étoiles filantesétoiles filantesétoiles filantesétoiles filantes Astronomy: the best places to see shooting stars in Paris and the Île-de-France region
Numerous shooting star nights occur throughout the year. These stars can be admired if the weather allows it, in places where pollution is less. But where to find these rare pearls in Paris and Ile-de-France? [Read more]

Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
From July 19th, 2023 to September 28th, 2023

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