Derekscope

Moon, Jupiter & the constellation Gemini (The Twin)

• To recognize the constellation Gemini near the Moon and Jupiter.
  o
• At 22:00 / 10pm, look toward the east – you’ll see the Moon and just to its right, a bright, steady “star” that’s Jupiter, not a star but the largest planet in our solar system.
  o
• Gemini rises in the northeast-east and climbs higher through the night.
  o

• Amazing to see both celestial bodies together – a rare opportunity for observation or astrophotography!
  o

• Today, 5th December marks the start of the Geminid Meteor Shower, though it hasn’t yet reached its peak.
  o
• The night of peak activity will be on Saturday 13th thru Sunday 14th December 2025.
  o

Triangle of light – the Moon, Aldebaran, and the Seven Sisters (M45)

• Look at the east horizon – the Supermoon forms a triangle with the Seven Sisters and Aldebaran.
  o
• Many mistake Aldebaran for Mars but here’s how to tell – stars twinkle, planets don’t!”
  o

Cold Moon

• Cold Moon
  – Full Moon in December is often associated with long, and crisp nights before the solstice on 21st December.

• Traditional Full Moon Names and their Meanings
  – Full Moon names reflect seasonal changes and natural rhythms observed by early cultures, particularly those influenced by UK colonial traditions and Native American heritage.
  o
  – Learn more about traditional Full Moon Names and their Meanings ~ Read more.
  o

• This is one of the most striking lunar events of the year, as the Moon passes directly in front of the famous open star cluster in constellation Taurus.
  o
• Binoculars – best for casual observers, you’ll notice stars blinking out as the Moon’s limb moves across.
  o

Your guide to the night sky this month

(Click below the button for more information)

oooo

Algol Minima

o

• The bright variable star Beta Persei (Algol) reaches its minimum brightness at 19.55 pm in the evening on Thursday 27th November and will be visible from the UK.
  o
• Here’s a list of upcoming minimum brightness times for Algol – read more.

oooo

• The Moon will be in its First Quarter phase, reaching exact alignment 50% disk illumination at 07.38 / 7.38am in the constellation Aquarius.
  o
• The Moon will be well-placed in the southern sky during the evening hours.
  o
• Sunset is around 16:00 / 4pm, so the Moon will be visible shortly after twilight.
  o
• Capturing lunar features like craters and mountain ranges along the terminator ~ great for astrophotography.
  o

Algol Minima

o

• The bright variable star Beta Persei (Algol) reaches its minimum brightness at 23:07 pm in the late night on Thursday 27th November and will be visible from the UK.
  o
• Here’s a list of upcoming minimum brightness times for Algol – read more.

oooo