British Society of Catalunya

Astronomical Information

For information, the following has been extracted from www.seasky.org ©, to whom, many thanks.

December 2 - Full Moon

December 13, 14 - Geminids Meteor Shower. Considered by many to be the best meteor shower in the heavens, the Geminids are known for producing up to 60 multicolored meteors per hour at their peak. The peak of the shower is on December 13 & 14, although some meteors should be visible from December 6 - 19. This year, a nearly new moon will provide an excellent viewing experience in the early morning hours. The radiant point for this shower will be in the constellation Gemini. Best viewing is usually to the east after midnight.

December 16 - New Moon

December 21 - The Winter Solstice occurs in the northern hemisphere at 17:47 UT. The Sun is at its lowest point in the sky and it will be the shortest day of the year. This is also the first day of winter.

December 31 - Full Moon

December 31 - Partial Lunar Eclipse. The eclipse will be visible throughout most of Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. (NASA Eclipse Information)

The eclipse of the moon on December 31. Partial eclipse starts at 19.57, the eclipse is full at 20.25 and the partial phase ends at 20 53. Now have a look at the graphic of the eastern sky at 19.50 local time in Catalunya. Procyon at the bottom of the graphic is barely above the horizon; North is to your left and the constellation Orion is east south east from your position.