The Best Stargazing Objects to See in Springtime 2021

One of the best times for stargazing throughout the year is coming up!  Springtime Stargazing means the weather is warming up, the wildflowers are in bloom and it’s the perfect time to get out and enjoy some extra-special stargazing.  Here in Western Australia, we have some of the darkest and pristine nights skies in the world so our view of the stars is breath-taking. 

Here are out top stargazing picks for Spring.           

Here are our top picks for significant launches about to blast-off in the final months of 2021.

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1. Two Planets Visit Brightest Star in Virgo – 6th & 21st September

Spica is the brightest star in the constellation of Virgo, and this September its visited by two planetary guests! On the 6th and 21st of September, both Venus and Mercury will make close approaches to this star respectively.

2. Venus, the Moon and Spica – 10th September

Dazzling Venus is always a favourite planet to see in the night sky, and when joined by the crescent Moon it will be a wonderful sight. Looking to the north-west at sunset, the cosmic duo will be joined by bright Spica to make it extra-special.

3. The Magical Constellation of Scorpio – Visible throughout Spring

Spring is a great time to find Scorpio! Learning to point out constellations is lots of fun, and one of the easiest to find is Scorpius the Scorpion. It’s a lovely, large constellation that really does form the shape of a scorpion!

4. Magnificent Milkyway

The Milkyway, spread across the night sky is arguably the most beautiful feature of the night sky and country WA is one of the best places in the world to witness the heart of our own galaxy. Easily visible from 7:30pm, between 29th September to 9th October.

5. Moon Visits Gas Giants – 14th & 15th October

This spring will be the best time to view the two most spectacular planets, Saturn and Jupiter. And turning up the spectacle, the Moon will be only 4 degrees from Saturn on the 14th and then joins Jupiter on the 15th.

Shooting Star Bullet Point

6. The Taurids Meteor Showers

The Southern & Northern Taurids Meteor Showers are two radiants associated with Comet 2P/Encke and are bright, slow moving meteors, making them easy to spot. They peak on the 10th October and 12th November. Seen from late evening to early morning, they have been known to produce colourful fireballs.

7. Mysterious Magellanic Clouds – October, November

These stunning clouds of stars are actually galaxies that lie outside our own Milkyway Galaxy. Lying in the southern sky, they are clearly seen under dark skies. With minimal light pollution in country regions, we are fortunate to see these beautiful naked-eye objects presented in all their glory.

Venus

8. Venus Visits the Teapot!

The Teapot is a familiar asterism that is part of the Sagittarius constellation. To help you pick it out in the night sky, Venus will be traversing the Teapot from 6th – 24th November. It is always fun to recognise different constellations in our night skies and bright Venus will lead the way!

Have more questions about space?

Join out Stargazing and Astronomy in Western Australia Facebook group and post your questions in there. We’ll get back to you with an answer!

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