Your Personal NASA Guide to the Night Sky For October
What are some skywatching highlights in October 2023? A "ring of fire" solar eclipse across the Americas on Saturday, Oct. 14, is this month's top highlight. Plus the Moon, Jupiter, Saturn, and Venus strike some lovely poses for stargazers and planet watchers to enjoy.
On Oct. 14, skywatchers in the Americas will have an opportunity to see a special type of solar eclipse called an annular eclipse. Along a path about 125 miles wide, the Sun will appear as a narrow ring of light – which is often called a "ring of fire” – at the eclipse’s peak. This narrow circle shape is also known as an annulus, giving this type of eclipse its name. Even outside this path, people throughout the contiguous U.S. will have a chance to see a partial solar eclipse. No matter where you are, remember to use proper eye protection throughout the entire eclipse!
On Oct. 23, look toward the south an hour or two after sunset to find the Moon, about 70% illuminated, hanging just beneath the planet Saturn. Their close proximity in the sky will make for some easy telescope viewing of these two skywatching favorites.
The full moon on Oct. 28 rises together with planet Jupiter. These are two of the brightest objects in the sky, and seeing them so close should make for quite an impressive sight.
Skywatching Tips & Guides from NASA.
