Moon & Occultations

Occultations, encounters between the Moon and other celestial bodies, and lunar phenomena relevant to observation.

3articles

Observadora ao telescópio sob céu estrelado, com uma sequência ilustrativa de fases da Lua e Lua cheia refletida em um lago.

Moon & Occultations27/09/20266 min read

New Moon or full Moon: which phase is best for stars and the lunar surface?

The new Moon favors faint stars and deep-sky viewing; first and last quarter reveal lunar terrain through shadows. Compare phases, brightness, and observing windows.

Read article

Lua cheia dourada surgindo sobre uma paisagem rural ao entardecer, com céu azul-escuro e dois pontos luminosos à direita.

Moon & Occultations02/09/20265 min read

September Harvest Moon: why the name does not mark Brazil's harvest season

The September 26 full Moon is called the Harvest Moon because of a Northern Hemisphere tradition. See why the name does not match Brazil's seasons or harvest calendar and how to ob...

Read article

Lua cheia em céu estrelado com Saturno e Netuno assinalados ao lado, enquanto binóculos e um telescópio aparecem em primeiro plano.

Moon & Occultations01/09/20264 min read

Full Moon near Saturn and Neptune on Sept. 26: what you can see and what needs optical aid

On September 26, the full Moon helps locate Saturn and Neptune. Saturn is visible to the naked eye; Neptune requires binoculars or a telescope.

Read article