Your guide to summer celestial events in New Hampshire
Summer in New Hampshire not only brings balmy weather and green landscapes, but also a stunning array of celestial events that light up the night sky. From meteor showers to unique planetary alignments, the state offers prime viewing opportunities for both amateur stargazers and seasoned astronomers.
This guide will help you mark your calendars and find the best spots to enjoy these spectacles. Whether you’re nestled in the remote White Mountains or perched by a serene lake, prepare for a summer filled with starry nights and celestial wonders.
Summer celestial events that can be seen in New Hampshire
June 20: June Solstice
The June solstice on June 20 marks the longest day of the year, ideal for maximizing outdoor activities or enjoying a tranquil evening under extended twilight in New Hampshire.
July 28-29: Delta Aquarids Meteor Shower
The Delta Aquarids meteor shower will light up New Hampshire’s skies, peaking the night of July 28 into the early hours of July 29. Known for average activity, this shower can dazzle with up to 20 meteors per hour under optimal conditions, best viewed away from city lights.
July 22: The Buck Moon
Following the meteor shower, the Buck Moon reaches its full illumination on July 22nd. This full moon is aptly named after the new antlers that begin to appear on deer bucks’ foreheads during this period. Residents and visitors in New Hampshire can witness this natural phenomenon, adding a special touch to the summer night sky.
August 12-13: Perseids Meteor Shower
August stands out with the Perseids Meteor Shower, arguably one of the most anticipated meteor events of the year. Peaking on the nights of August 12th and 13th, this shower can produce up to 60 bright meteors per hour, creating a spectacular display against the backdrop of a new moon on August 4th, which provides ideal dark skies for viewing.
September 18, 2024: Partial Solar Eclipse
New Hampshire will experience a partial solar eclipse in the late afternoon, with the moon covering a portion of the sun. This rare event will provide a dramatic view, best observed using proper solar viewing equipment to protect the eyes.
September 8, 2024: Saturn at Opposition
Also on this day, Saturn reaches opposition, allowing for the best viewing of this ringed planet. With a small telescope, viewers in New Hampshire can observe Saturn’s rings and its largest moons. Saturn will be visible all night, shining brightly in the constellation Aquarius.
Where to watch summer celestial events in New Hampshire
Francestown Barn – Francestown
Francestown Barn in Francestown provides a remote and expansive setting ideal for stargazing due to minimal light pollution and ample open space, making it popular among both amateur astronomers and casual observers seeking a peaceful night under the stars.
Crawford Notch Depot – Crawford Notch State Park
Located in Crawford Notch State Park, Crawford Notch Depot combines historical charm with exceptional stargazing opportunities, shielded by the surrounding White Mountains which block excess light and create a serene atmosphere.
Lake Solitude – Mount Sunapee
After a short hike, stargazers can enjoy reflections of the cosmos in the calm waters of Lake Solitude, enhancing the viewing experience. The lake’s high elevation and distance from city lights ensure a clear, unobstructed view of the night sky.
Pemigewasset Overlook – Kancamagus Highway
Pemigewasset Overlook along the scenic Kancamagus Highway is a prime location for viewing celestial events. Its elevated position and panoramic views across the White Mountains provide a vast, unobstructed canvas for observing meteor showers, planetary alignments, and the Milky Way. This location is especially popular among stargazers during clear, dark nights when the skies unveil their full astronomical potential.
White Lake State Park – Tamworth
White Lake State Park, nestled in Tamworth, New Hampshire, is an idyllic spot for viewing celestial events. The reflective surface of White Lake and open fields add a mesmerizing quality to the stargazing experience, doubling the stars’ brilliance on clear nights.
Umbagog Lake
Located on the border between New Hampshire and Maine, Umbagog Lake offers a tranquil setting for stargazers. The lake’s expansive, open sky is ideal for viewing meteor showers and lunar eclipses. Visitors to Umbagog Lake can enjoy these astronomical events from the quiet, natural surroundings of this remote area.
Come Prepared
To maximize your experience, check the local weather forecast for clear skies and aim for dates when the moon is less prominent in the sky to reduce natural light pollution. Always verify the exact dates and visibility times for these events using a reliable astronomical resource or app, as these can provide real-time updates and reminders.
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