What’s Up January 2025

A monthly look at astronomical events in the sky and on Earth

Compiled and written by Steve Sawyer

Happy New Year and welcome to the first “What’s Up”! of 2025
To kick off this month, let’s have a look at some of the major events happening in 2025.

The Planets

Mercury

Mercury is observable at its greatest elongations during the year, particularly in the mornings and evenings. These elongations are the best times to view Mercury due to its proximity to the Sun.

Venus

Venus will transition from an evening star to a morning star in late April 2025. Its brightness and prominence in the sky make it a major highlight.

Mars

Mars is visible in the evening sky for most of 2025. More on Mars in our monthly planets section.

Jupiter

Jupiter will dominate the evening skies after its opposition in December 2024. It will remain a key target for observers into 2025, especially in the first few months. The planet’s four largest moons, the Galilean moons, are visible through binoculars or a small telescope​.

Saturn

Saturn will be an evening target for much of 2025, and the planet’s ring system will be particularly interesting due to the ring plane crossing that occurs in 2025. This phenomenon occurs approximately every 15 years when the rings are edge-on from Earth’s perspective, providing a rare view​.

Uranus

Uranus is visible in the evening sky during its opposition in November 2025.

Neptune

Neptune is also best observed around its opposition in September 2025.

The Sun

See our solar section below as we’re now in solar maximum and solar activity is very high and can be expected to continue this year.

Meteor Showers

-Major showers such as the Perseids (August), Geminids (December), and Quadrantids (January see below) will provide spectacular opportunities for stargazers​.


 

This Months York Astro Presentations

This month we can look forward to

 

Other upcoming events

Date Title Speaker
17/01/2025 Astronomy of the Islamic Calendar Qamar Uddin
07/02/2025 Member’s Evening – Short Talks York AS Members
12/02/2025 Binocular Astronomy Andrew Stephenson
For further details see the events page [Astronomy Presentations by guest speakers York Astro and our Facebook group
The York Astronomical Society Chat Group
Facebook

 

And in the night sky this month we can look forward to the annual Quadrantids meteor shower, a bright Mars and a lunar occultation of Saturn.

 

So what’s on this month?

 

In the northern sky during this time of year, circumpolar constellations like Ursa Major, Ursa Minor (with Polaris), and Cassiopeia are easy to spot, while Auriga, with its bright star Capella and the nearby “Kids,” lies near the zenith. The southern sky is dominated by Orion, with its iconic Belt and Sword, which includes the Orion Nebula. Orion’s Belt points northwest to Taurus, where Aldebaran and the Hyades cluster are visible, as well as the nearby Pleiades star cluster.

 

Sky Diary

Date Time (UTC) Event
03 15:24 Venus (magnitude -4.4) will pass 1.4° north of the Moon.
04 14:00 Earth reaches perihelion, its closest point to the Sun: 0.98333 AU.
04 17:18 Saturn (magnitude 1.1) will pass 0.7° south of the Moon. UK observers may witness an occultation.
06 23:56 First Quarter Moon phase.
07 23:34 The Moon will be at perigee, 370,173 km from Earth.
10 01:01 The Pleiades cluster will be 0.3° south of the Moon.
10 04:00 Venus reaches its greatest elongation, 47.2° east of the Sun.
10 23:13 Jupiter (magnitude -2.7) will be 5.5° south of the Moon.
13 21:45 Pollux will be 2.2° north of the Moon.
13 22:27 Full Moon occurs.
14 03:42 Mars (magnitude -1.4) will pass 0.2° south of the Moon.
16 01:00 Mars reaches opposition with a brightness of magnitude -1.4.
16 14:57 Regulus will be 2.2° south of the Moon.
18 16:00 Venus (magnitude -4.6) will be 2.2° north of Saturn (magnitude 1.1).
19 14:00 Mercury reaches aphelion, its farthest point from the Sun.
21 03:53 Spica will be 0.1° north of the Moon.
21 04:55 The Moon will be at apogee, 404,299 km from Earth.
21 20:31 Last Quarter Moon phase.
23 17:07 Mars (magnitude -1.3) will be 2.3° south of Pollux.
24 23:34 Antares will be 0.3° north of the Moon.
29 12:36 New Moon occurs.

This table captures the astronomical events for January, including phases of the moon, planetary alignments, and other notable occurrences.


Sky Maps

Looking South on the 15th at 22:00

Looking North on the 15th at 22:00

The two charts above show all DSOs of magnitude 6.0 or brighter. They are both taken from
SkyViewCafe.com and correct for the 15th of the month.

 

January Objects

 

The Sun


As you can see above there’s no shortage of sunspots and the moment as we head towards solar maximum. 2025 marks the peak of the current solar cycle, here’s hoping for some more spectacular Aurora’s like those that graced our skies in 2024

Just as a contrast here’s the sun in Dec 2019 at solar minimum compared to the current solar maximum.

There’s a great NASA page on the solar maximum
NASA SVS | NASA, NOAA Announce That the Sun Has Reached the Solar Maximum Period

At the current time (31st December) we’re due a CME that may kick off Aurora for New Years Eve/Day and have been many solar flares in the last 48 hours. So I’m sure we may see some Aurora in January.

Resources

For more info on the sun and solar weather look here : –

Space Weather Enthusiasts Dashboard | NOAA / NWS Space Weather Prediction Center

Auroa Forecasts

A bit US centred but still useful

Aurora Dashboard (Experimental) | NOAA / NWS Space Weather Prediction Center

And our own Met-office have an excellent space weather forecast page here Space Weather – Met Office


The Moon

Januarys Lunar Calendar

Januarys moon calendar from Sky View Café (skyviewcafe.com)
A full yearly lunar calendar can be found here :-

https://www.mooninfo.org/moon-phases/2024.html

The Moons Positions in January

Date Event
03 Venus (magnitude -4.4) will pass 1.4° north of the Moon.
04 Saturn (magnitude 1.1) will pass 0.7° south of the Moon. UK observers may witness an occultation.
06 First Quarter Moon phase.
07 The Moon will be at perigee, 370,173 km from Earth.
10 The Pleiades cluster will be 0.3° south of the Moon.
10 Jupiter (magnitude -2.7) will be 5.5° south of the Moon.
13 Pollux will be 2.2° north of the Moon.
13 Full Moon occurs.
14 Mars (magnitude -1.4) will pass 0.2° south of the Moon.
16 Regulus will be 2.2° south of the Moon.
21 Spica will be 0.1° north of the Moon.
21 The Moon will be at apogee, 404,299 km from Earth.
21 Last Quarter Moon phase.
24 Antares will be 0.3° north of the Moon.
29 New Moon occurs.

Moon Feature

Schröter’s Valley

With the longer nights and hopefully clear skies January offers some excellent opportunities for observing the Moon. This month we’re looking at Schröter’s Valley.

The image above was taken by Apollo 15 and looks south Across the Aristarchus Plateau.
There are two prominent impact craters in the photograph. On the left is Aristarchus, 40 km in diameter, and on the right is Herodotus, 35 km in diameter. In the centre of the photograph, between the two craters, is a feature known as the Cobra’s Head. Beginning at the Cobra’s Head, the sinuous valley that snakes its way to the right is Schröter’s Valley.

What is Schröter’s Valley?

Schröter’s Valley, also known as Vallis Schröteri, is the largest sinuous rille on the Moon. It is located near the crater Aristarchus in the Moon’s northwestern quadrant. This remarkable feature is believed to have formed from ancient volcanic activity and resembles a winding river channel.

  • Length: Approximately 160 kilometers
  • Width: Up to 10 kilometers at its widest point
  • Depth: Up to 1 kilometer

The valley begins at a feature known as the “Cobra Head,” a depression thought to be a volcanic vent. From there, it snakes its way across the lunar surface, offering a stunning sight when viewed under favourable lighting conditions.

When and How to Observe Schröter’s Valley

  • Best Time: Schröter’s Valley is best observed during the waxing gibbous phase, around 9 to 11 days after the new moon. 
  • Equipment Needed: A telescope with at least 4-6 inches of aperture is recommended. Higher magnifications (150x or more) will help reveal finer details.
  • Observation Tips:
    • Use a lunar filter to reduce glare and enhance contrast.
    • Focus on the “Cobra Head” region to trace the valley’s path across the surface.

Nearby Features to Explore

While observing Schröter’s Valley, take the time to explore nearby features:

  • Aristarchus Crater: One of the brightest craters on the Moon, located close to the valley.
  • Herodotus Crater: Adjacent to the “Cobra Head,” this crater provides a contrasting view with its smooth floor.
  • Aristarchus Plateau: A geologically fascinating region that includes Schröter’s Valley and its surroundings.

Planets

Mercury

A morning planet and very low on the South Eastern horizon

Venus

Venus dominates the western evening sky as the “Evening Star,” shining brilliantly at magnitude -4.4, making it the brightest celestial object after the Moon. Visible shortly after sunset, Venus appears as a striking white point easily observable with the naked eye. Optimal observation occurs 30–90 minutes after sunset in locations with unobstructed horizons, though atmospheric turbulence may affect low-altitude clarity.

Mars

Mars is at opposition on January 16, 2025. At this time, it shines brightly at magnitude -1.4 and presents a disk 14.5 arcseconds across in telescopes, making it an excellent target for observation. Its closest approach to Earth occurs on January 12, 2025, at a distance of 0.64 astronomical units (AU)​​.

This opposition is not as favourable as some past ones, as Mars is farther from Earth than during oppositions near its perihelion. Nevertheless, features such as the North Polar Cap, dark surface markings like Syrtis Major, and atmospheric details may still be visible through telescopes under steady seeing conditions.

Jupiter

Jupiter is positioned in the constellation Taurus, shining brightly at magnitude -2.7 and easily visible in the evening sky. By mid-month, it rises early in the evening and crosses the meridian around 10 p.m., making it accessible for hours of observation. The planet’s disk spans 45 arcseconds, allowing telescopes to reveal its distinct equatorial belts and dynamic features such as the Great Red Spot, which transits periodically across the central meridian.

Saturn

Saturn is located in the constellation Aquarius and is visible in the western sky after sunset. Shining at magnitude +0.7, it sets relatively early in the evening, so observation is best shortly after twilight.

Uranus

Uranus resides in the constellation Aries, shining at a faint magnitude of +5.7, making it just visible to the naked eye under dark skies. Best observed with binoculars or a small telescope, it appears as a tiny bluish-green disk. Uranus is high in the southern sky during the early evening hours, providing an excellent window for observation before it sets late at night.

Neptune

Neptune is located in the constellation Pisces, shining at magnitude +7.9, making it invisible to the naked eye but accessible through binoculars or a telescope. It appears as a small, bluish disk through a telescope, requiring steady viewing conditions for detailed observation. Best viewed in the early evening, Neptune sets a few hours after sunset, so an unobstructed western horizon is necessary for optimal visibility.


Meteor Showers

The Quadrantids

Quadrantid meteor shower will be the highlight of the month. Active from December 26 to January 12, it reaches its peak on the night of January 3-4. Under ideal conditions, the Quadrantids can produce a Zenith Hourly Rate (ZHR) of up to 120 meteors per hour, making it one of the year’s most prolific meteor showers. The meteors are relatively fast-moving, entering the atmosphere at speeds of 40 km/s, and the radiant point is located near the constellation Boötes, close to the bright star Alkaid in Ursa Major.

This year’s peak coincides with a waxing crescent Moon that sets early in the evening, providing dark skies for optimal observation. To fully enjoy the event, find a location with minimal light pollution and a clear view of the north-eastern horizon

Comets

Month Object Magnitude
2025 Jan C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) 10
2025 Jan C/2022 E2 (ATLAS) 12
2025 Jan 333P/LINEAR 12
2025 Jan 29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann 1 13
2025 Jan 13P/Olbers 12
2025 Jan C/2023 C2 (ATLAS) 13

29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann 1: The Unpredictable Comet

29P/Schwassmann-Wachmann 1, discovered in 1927 by Arnold Schwassmann and Arno Wachmann, is one of the most fascinating and mysterious comets in the solar system. Classified as a “centaur” object, it orbits just beyond Jupiter with a near-circular path and a period of approximately 14.7 years. However, what truly sets 29P apart is its frequent and unpredictable outbursts.

The Phenomenon of Outbursts

29P experiences dramatic eruptions, known as cryovolcanic outbursts, which can increase its brightness by 5–7 magnitudes in just hours. These outbursts are believed to occur when volatile materials, such as carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, rapidly vaporize from beneath its surface. Unlike traditional comets that brighten near the Sun, 29P’s activity occurs far from the Sun, driven by internal processes.

Typically, the comet undergoes 7–10 outbursts per year, making it an unpredictable and exciting target for observers. During an outburst, its brightness can rise from magnitude 13 to as high as 8, bringing it into the range of smaller telescopes.

Scientific Significance

29P’s unique behaviour offers astronomers a glimpse into the early solar system. Its cryovolcanism provides valuable insights into the composition and subsurface activity of icy bodies. Studying 29P helps scientists understand the mechanisms driving activity in distant solar system objects.

Observing 29P in January 2025

In January 2025, 29P is predicted to be at magnitude 13 under normal conditions, and may be visible from Beetlebank using the society’s scopes.

Link here for further details of each comet and how to locate it.
Visual Comets in the Future (Northern Hemisphere) (aerith.net)


Deep Sky (DSO’s)

Some lesser-known but spectacular deep sky objects to observe. These targets are ideal for experienced astrophotographers looking for something off the beaten track.

1. The Flaming Star Nebula (IC 405)

  • Type: Emission and reflection nebula
  • Location: Constellation Auriga
  • Description: This stunning nebula surrounds the irregular variable star AE Aurigae. Its combination of glowing red hydrogen gas and blue reflection regions makes it a unique photographic target.
  • Tips: Use a telescope with a wide field of view and an OIII or UHC filter for best results.

APOD: 2020 January 7 – IC 405: The Flaming Star Nebula

2. The Rosette Nebula (NGC 2237)

  • Type: Emission nebula
  • Location: Constellation Monoceros
  • Description: A massive cloud of hydrogen gas and young stars forming in its core, this nebula is a striking sight through long exposure astrophotography.

Tips: Use a low-power eyepiece or a small telescope to capture the full structure.

APOD: 2019 April 12 – A Cosmic Rose: The Rosette Nebula in Monoceros

3. The Medusa Nebula (Abell 21)

  • Type: Planetary nebula
  • Location: Constellation Gemini
  • Description: This faint and large planetary nebula has a ghostly appearance and is often overlooked. It’s challenging but rewarding for skilled observers.
  • Tips: A narrowband OIII filter will enhance visibility.

APOD: 2024 November 22 – The Medusa Nebula

4. The Monkey Head Nebula (NGC 2174)

  • Type: Emission nebula
  • Location: Constellation Orion
  • Description: Resembling a monkey’s head, this bright nebula is a lesser-known neighbor of the Orion Nebula. It’s a great target for astrophotography.
  • Tips: Use moderate magnification to pick out the structure.

APOD: 2021 January 16 – The Mountains of NGC 2174

5. The Spaghetti Nebula (Simeis 147)

  • Type: Supernova remnant
  • Location: Constellation Taurus
  • Description: This faint and sprawling remnant of a supernova explosion is a challenging but rewarding target for advanced observers.
  • Tips: Best viewed through a telescope with a wide field of view and a narrowband filter.

APOD: 2024 February 27 – Supernova Remnant Simeis 147

6. The Little Dumbbell Nebula (M76)

  • Type: Planetary nebula
  • Location: Constellation Perseus
  • Description: While not as famous as its counterpart in Vulpecula, the Little Dumbbell Nebula is a fascinating planetary nebula with a distinct hourglass shape.

APOD: 2010 July 23 – Messier 76


ISS and other orbiting bits

Date Duration Max Elevation Start Position End Position
Sat Dec 28 2 min 27° 27° above SE 10° above ESE
Sat Dec 28 4 min 23° 16° above WSW 10° above SSE
Sun Dec 29 3 min 30° 30° above SSW 10° above SE
Mon Dec 30 1 min 19° 19° above SE 10° above SE
Mon Dec 30 3 min 13° 11° above WSW 10° above S
Tue Dec 31 2 min 18° 18° above SSW 10° above SSE
Wed Jan 1 < 1 min 12° 12° above SSE 10° above SSE

Use the this NASA website for exact timings for York overpasses. York, England, United Kingdom | Sighting Opportunity | Spot The Station | NASA

Useful Resources

StarLust – A Website for People with a Passion for Astronomy, Stargazing, and Space Exploration.

https://www.spacedaily.com

http://www.n3kl.org/sun/noaa.html

http://skymaps.com/downloads.html

https://earthsky.org/

Astronomy Calendar of Celestial Events 2024 – Sea and Sky (seasky.org)

https://www.rmg.co.uk/stories/topics/what-are-names-full-moons-throughout-yearhttp://www.deepskywatch.com/deepsky-guide.html

https://www.constellation-guide.com

IMO | International Meteor Organization

https://in-the-sky.org

and of course the Sky at Night magazine!

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