Best astronomical events for 2025: A stargazing calendar

Jennifer McShane
·5 min read
scenic view of lake and mountains against sky at night at lake district national park
2025 celestial events: Your month-by-month guide Joe Hayhurst / 500px - Getty Images

There’s a treasure trove of celestial wonders to look forward to in 2025, from stunning meteor showers to glowing supermoons and planetary alignments.

Whether you’re an avid astronomer or simply enjoy gazing at a glittering night sky, we’ve compiled a guide of unmissable astronomical events for you to look out for over the coming months.

Binoculars at the ready...

Best astronomical events to see in 2025

January

January began with a dazzling celestial event: the Quadrantids Meteor Shower, which peaked on the night of the 3rd and into the 4th. Known for producing bright fireballs, this meteor shower can yield 120 meteors per hour under optimal conditions.

quadrantids meteor on the lake
dreamedmstudio

On the 25th, Mercury reached its greatest eastern elongation. This saw the planet reaching its highest point above the horizon after sunset.

February: Venus at its best

February is a fantastic month to spot Venus, which will be visible as the dazzling 'Evening Star' throughout the month. Mid-February offers a prime opportunity to see Venus at its brightest, shining brilliantly just after sunset.

Don’t miss the Snow Moon on the 13th at 11:32 pm. Named after the frosty – and often snowy – landscapes of February, this full moon casts a bright, ethereal glow over chilly terrain.

boise, id, usa february 26, 2021 february full snow moon rising over boise in the late winter season
Darwin Fan

March: Spring Equinox

March brings the Worm Moon, rising on the 14th. Its name reflects the reawakening of the soil as spring approaches, with earthworms emerging and birds returning.

The Spring Equinox on the 20th marks the start of astronomical spring, a time of balance as day and night are equal in length. Around this time, Saturn will be particularly visible in the morning sky, a treat for early risers with telescopes.

April: Lyrid Meteor Shower

The Lyrid Meteor Shower, peaking on the 22nd and 23rd, is a highlight of April. With around 20 meteors per hour and occasional bright fireballs, it’s a stunning display for skywatchers.

a meteor from the lyrids meteor shower crossing the milky way single exposure
j2chav

On the 12th, the Pink Moon graces the night sky. This full moon, named after blooming wildflowers, is a favourite for its warm, golden hue.

May: The Flower Moon

The Eta Aquariid Meteor Shower peaks on the 5th and 6th. Associated with Halley’s Comet, it’s known for its swift, bright meteors radiating from the Aquarius constellation.

May also features the Flower Moon on the 12th, symbolising spring’s bloom. On the 30th, look west in the morning for a chance to catch a glimpse.

early spring in vancouver bc canada with lots of cherry and plum blossoms blooming
totororo

June: The Strawberry Moon

June’s Strawberry Moon, a supermoon, rises on the 10th. Named after ripening strawberries, it’s a stunning celestial sight as it appears larger and brighter than usual.

Celebrate the Summer Solstice on the 21st, the longest day of the year. Later in the month, on the 27th, the June Bootid Meteor Shower could provide a sporadic, beautiful display.

July: The Buck Moon

The Buck Moon on the 20th is named after the antlers of male deer, which begin to grow during this time of year. It’s a serene full moon, ideal for summer evenings.

On the 30th, Saturn reaches opposition, meaning it will be at its closest and brightest. With a telescope, you might be able to see its stunning rings and even some of its moons.

August: Perseids Meteor Shower

August is a stargazer’s dream. The Perseid Meteor Shower, peaking on the 12th and 13th, is one of the brightest meteor showers of the year, offering up to 100 meteors per hour.

the milky way with the perseid meteor at night
Jerry Jian

A Super Blue Moon will then appear on the 19th. This rare phenomenon occurs when a second full moon rises in the same month, and it’s also a supermoon, appearing especially large and bright.

September: The Harvest Moon

September’s Harvest Moon on the 18th is the full moon closest to the autumn equinox. Farmers traditionally used its bright light to extend their working hours during the harvest season.

On the 25th, Jupiter reaches opposition, shining brilliantly in the night sky. You can spot the planet’s major moons even with a simple pair of binoculars.

October: The Hunter’s Moon

The Draconid Meteor Shower peaks on the 9th and 10th. Though less active than others, its meteors are often slow and dramatic, making it a favourite for casual observers.

Later in the month, the Orionid Meteor Shower peaks on the 21st and 22nd, offering fast, bright meteors. On the 17th, the Hunter’s Moon, with its reddish glow enhancing the autumn atmosphere, is also worth observing.

the orange moon also known as the harvest moon or the hunter’s moon over the night sky at sikkim india moon is partly covered by clouds
RNMitra

November: Leonids and The Frost Moon

The Leonid Meteor Shower, known for its occasional meteor storms, peaks on the 17th and 18th. On average, expect up to 15 meteors per hour radiating from the constellation Leo.

The Frost Moon on the 16th reflects the chilling temperatures of late autumn. It’s a brilliant full moon that lights up the increasingly long nights.

December: Geminids, Ursids, and The Cold Moon

December brings with it a celestial triple treat. The Geminid Meteor Shower, peaking on the 13th and 14th, delivers up to 120 meteors per hour, making it the most reliable meteor shower of the year.

On the 22nd, the lesser-known Ursid Meteor Shower reaches its peak. Though smaller, it offers a charming display just before Christmas.

milky way core over kielder forest
Mark Bromham

The Cold Moon, rising on the 15th, concludes the year with its frosty glow — a perfect finale for 2025.

Love stargazing? Discover Northumberland's dark skies with astronomer Richard Darn with this tour.


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