August 2024: The Teapot, Galactic Wonders, and Space Oddities

Join Beth and Leon for your monthly stargazing guide as they explore the Borloo night sky this May. With the arrival of cooler nights and the end of Bunuru, it’s the perfect time to head outside on Star Wars Day (May the 4th!) for some celestial viewing. Spot the bright first quarter Moon alongside rusty-red Mars, both shining in the north. Below them, Gemini’s twin stars Castor and Pollux frame a spectacular 7:13pm flyover of the International Space Station, zipping through the gap like a real-life starship.Further up, look for the hilarious “dog” constellation Canis Minor (made up of… just two stars), then continue turning right to find Leo the Lion, with its upside-down question mark mane and mythological ties to Hercules’ very first labour. Peek further into Leo’s rear to find the Leo Triplet three faraway galaxies, including one affectionately dubbed the Hamburger Galaxy.Early risers are in for a treat, too. On May 5th, the Eta Aquarids meteor shower will peak before dawn. Head out around 5am to face east and catch up to 30 meteors per hour, streaking from the Aquarius constellation. Venus blazes low on the horizon as the new Morning Star, while Saturn hovers above marking a beautiful pairing with the meteor display.May the 4th be with you—and don’t forget to wave at the ISS!