Sky Watch, January

January 1, 2025

by Peter Lutken

Here's to a Happy New Year!

2024 was a tough one: epic hurricanes, droughts, and fires around the world made millions suffer, especially those in war zones. Still, if we open our eyes, there is always a lot to be thankful for. Here are some good things to look for right now: 

Evening Skies: Four beautiful planets - Venus is beginning to shine out in the west as the bright Evening Star with Saturn close by. Jupiter is rising in the east, followed by Mars and the winter stars.

The Winter Hexagon is in view most of the night. In addition to Jupiter and Mars this year, the perimeter includes some of the brightest stars in the sky: Capella, Sirius, Procyon, and Rigel. They surround the constellation Orion!

Full Moon: January 13.

Morning Skies: The Big Dipper is high in the Northern Sky, and the bright star Arcturus is right overhead. Vega, a beautiful summer star, is peeking over the northeastern horizon as the sun comes up!

Quarry/Outdoors: With fewer leaves on the trees, small birds are easier to spot this time of year! Cedar Waxwings are starting to arrive and are looking for berries. The photo is of a backyard Wren grabbing some lunch!

Get outdoors every day in 2025! It always helps your mood. You never know what you'll see or learn! 

PKL