NASA has shared highlights for observing the sky for May, which include a total lunar eclipse, several great opportunities to spot planets, such as the connection between Jupiter and Mars, and other events.
In mid-May, observers in the sky can expect a total lunar eclipse in North and South America, as well as in Africa and Europe. The visible part of the eclipse will begin on May 15, and the peak will be at 00:11 on Monday morning, May 16.
Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are safe to see directly with the eyes, binoculars or a telescope.
Here is a summary of other celestial events to watch in May 2022:
Skywatchers will also have the opportunity to see the star cluster Coma – the second closest open cluster to Earth after the Hiadi Cup in Taurus. The brightest stars in the bowl, which is about 300 light-years away, form a distinctive Y-shape. The Coma star cluster is about 6 degrees wide and is located about 15 degrees east of the back of Leo, the constellation Leo, which is located high above the head to the south. It is relatively easy to find with binoculars, even in light-polluted city skies.
During the last week of May, you can watch Jupiter and Mars get closer and closer in the foreshadowing sky every morning. You can watch the planetary coincidence of the 28th to the 30th, where the two planets will be separated only by the width of the full moon.
It will be May 💫 Another month of observing the sky is on the horizon – and we will see planets, a conjunction between Jupiter and Mars and a total eclipse of the Moon! Throughout the month, the Coma star cluster is a great evening target for binoculars. pic.twitter.com/80P3b6SMbm
– NASA JPL (@NASAJPL) May 1, 2022
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