Observing the sky and the stars is the dream of many people. So we went to find for you the dates not to be missed this summer, the most pleasant places to observe the sky in the region and various appointments to understand the Universe that surrounds us.
Summer is a perfect time to practice astronomy. The sky is clear, the nights are warm and the astronomical phenomena are numerous, these are all good reasons to spend the night outside stargazing.
A summer rich in natural phenomena
In June 2022 a “great alignment of the planets” took place but it was not the only observable phenomenon in the sky this summer. So open your eyes wide because there are many appointments.
First of all, from Wednesday July 13 you will be able to see the super moon. Our night star will then be closer to the Earth and it will be possible to see it bigger and brighter than ever. To observe it in the best conditions, you have to hope for clear weather and get as far away as possible from the light pollution of the big cities.
This year the most famous night ofshooting Stars will take place again in August. The Perseid meteor shower will be visible from July 20 to August 25, with peak activity on the night of August 12-13. Telescope or binoculars will not be necessary, you will just have to keep your eyes glued to the sky because they move at almost 50 km/second.
Finally, for the best equipped among you, you will have to take out the telescope on Saturday July 16 to observe a conjunction (the bringing together of two celestial objects) between Saturn and the Moon. On July 19, it will slip right below Jupiter and finally on July 26 it is Venus which will be below our natural satellite. Finally on August 14 you can observe Saturn closest to Earth and hope to distinguish these rings.
Occitania, the dream place for stargazers
Occitania is one of the regions where admiring the stars is the easiest. Indeed, it houses two of the three international dark sky reserves recognized in France: the Cevennes National Park et the Pic du Midi de Bigorre. The Cévennes National Park is also the largest international dark sky reserve in Europe.
You can also observe the stars in the many observatories and planetariums of the region. For instance Planet Tarn in Montredon-Labessonnie will give you access to a 410mm telescope and a planetarium room. You can also spend the night at Aniane’s Astronarium to sleep under the stars in a transparent dome and take part in sky observation evenings. You can also visit Jolimont observatory in Toulouse and attend conferences and visits
Events not to be missed
The Space City In Toulouse organizes a number of activities throughout the summer to interest young and old in the wonderful world of astronomy. From Tuesday July 12 you will be able to attend a live explanation of the first images of James Webb and better understand the challenge of this new scientific advance. On Friday August 5 you can participate in the night of the stars until midnight.
Finally for more than 30 years le Fleurance Astronomy Festival in the Gers takes place from August 5 to 12. You will once again be able to learn a little more about the Universe with a large number of conferences, activities, and observations of the sky with scientists.