The night sky has always been a source of wonder—a canvas of endless possibilities waiting to be captured.

As photographers, we live for those moments that leave people breathless: the shimmering arc of the Milky Way, the fiery burst of a meteor shower, or the quiet beauty of a lunar eclipse. But here’s the thing—opportunities like these don’t just happen every day, and knowing whenand where to look is half the battle.

That’s why I’ve put together this comprehensive guide to 2025’s most spectacular celestial events.

Think of it as your personal roadmap to the stars. From meteor showers and eclipses to planetary alignments and rare conjunctions, this guide will help you stay ahead of the curve, plan your shots with precision, and create images that truly stand out.

Whether you’re just starting your astrophotography journey or you’re looking to take your skills to the next level, this calendar has something for everyone. Most events can be captured with your standard camera gear, but for a few special occasions, like photographing a solar eclipse, I’ll highlight any additional equipment you might need to get the shot safely and effectively.

For each event, I’ve included key details like dates, times in Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), and tips for getting the best possible shot. You’ll also find insights on converting times to your local time zone and practical advice for turning these fleeting moments into unforgettable photographs.

So, are you ready to elevate your astrophotography this year? Let’s dive in and make 2025 a year of awe-inspiring images and unforgettable nights under the stars.

“You cannot look up at the night sky on the planet Earth and not wonder what it’s like to be up there among the stars.”

– Tom Hanks

1. 2025 Highlights

Before we dive in, take a deep breath.

Astronomy can feel overwhelming at first—there’s a lot to explore, and some terms might be unfamiliar. Don’t worry, though! To make this journey as smooth as possible, you can check out the Photographers Glossary where you’ll find clear explanations for any terms that leave you scratching your head.

By understanding what you’re photographing and how to capture it, you’ll be better equipped to plan and create those stunning shots that stand out.

Why is 2025 worth your time and effort?

From a celestial perspective, 2025 is shaping up to be an incredible year. With so many unique events to capture, the opportunities for creating magical images are endless.

This year, you’ll have the chance to photograph:

A total solar eclipse and an annular solar eclipse
A partial lunar eclipse and a penumbral lunar eclipse
Two dazzling Supermoons

And let’s not forget the iconic Milky Way. The Galactic Center starts making its appearance in late January for many parts of the world and fades from view by November. Add to that the mysterious beauty of the zodiacal light, which graces the skies in spring and fall in both hemispheres, and you’ve got plenty of inspiration.

Looking for meteor showers? The most promising in 2025 will be the Eta Aquariids and the Delta Aquariids. While others like the Quadrantids, Lyrids, Orionids, Leonids, Geminids, and Ursids will coincide with a bright Moon, you can still catch meteors if you wait for the Moon to set. Pro tip: Use tools like PhotoPills to check Moonset times and decide whether it’s worth setting up for the show.

And what about comets? They’re famously unpredictable, but if we’re lucky, a few may grace the skies this year:

January 13: C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) at its brightest
November 22: 210P/Christensen at its brightest

Finally, if you’re chasing auroras, 2025 could be your year.

For the Northern Hemisphere:

The aurora season runs from mid-August to early April.
Fall (mid-August to first snowfall) is ideal—nights are dark but not yet freezing, skies are often clear, and locations are easier to access before snow arrives.
Spring also offers clear skies, but brighter nights make aurora viewing trickier.
The best times to spot the aurora are near the equinoxes (March and September) and in the hours before dawn.

For the Southern Hemisphere:

The best viewing occurs during the winter months, from March to September, with June and July being optimal for darker, longer nights.
While the spring equinox (September) is often touted as the best time for aurora viewing, this isn’t always consistent.
Southern Lights are most vivid a couple of hours after dusk.

A Quick Overview of 2025’s Highlights

The table below outlines the key astronomical events for the year. Throughout this guide, you’ll find monthly sections with detailed information about each event, including where they’ll be visible.

Remember, your location on Earth plays a significant role in determining what you’ll be able to capture. To eliminate any guesswork, use planning tools like PhotoPills to check event visibility for your specific location and to map out your shots with precision.

So, are you ready to embrace the magic of 2025’s night skies? Let’s get started!

Date	Name	Event Type
Friday, January 03, 2025	Quadrantids Meteor Shower	Meteor Shower
Monday, January 13, 2025	Full Moon	Full Moon
Monday, January 13, 2025	C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) at its brightest	Comet
Wednesday, January 29, 2025	New Moon	New Moon
Wednesday, February 12, 2025	Full Moon	Full Moon
Sunday, February 23, 2025	Core Visibility Starts	MW Core
Thursday, February 27, 2025	New Moon	New Moon
Friday, March 14, 2025	Total Lunar Eclipse / Full Moon	Lunar Eclipse
Saturday, March 29, 2025	New Moon	New Moon
Saturday, April 12, 2025	Full Moon	Full Moon
Tuesday, April 22, 2025	Lyrids Meteor Shower	Meteor Shower
Sunday, April 27, 2025	New Moon	New Moon
Tuesday, May 06, 2025	Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower	Meteor Shower
Monday, May 12, 2025	Full Moon	Full Moon
Monday, May 26, 2025	New Moon	New Moon
Wednesday, June 11, 2025	Full Moon	Full Moon
Saturday, June 21, 2025	Summer Solstice	Solstice
Wednesday, June 25, 2025	New Moon	New Moon
Thursday, July 10, 2025	Full Moon	Full Moon
Thursday, July 24, 2025	New Moon	New Moon
Tuesday, July 29, 2025	Delta Aquariids Meteor Shower	Meteor Shower
Saturday, August 09, 2025	Full Moon	Full Moon
Wednesday, August 13, 2025	Perseids Meteor Shower	Meteor Shower
Saturday, August 23, 2025	New Moon	New Moon
Sunday, September 07, 2025	Full Moon	Full Moon
Sunday, September 07, 2025	Total Lunar Eclipse	Lunar Eclipse
Sunday, September 21, 2025	New Moon	New Moon
Monday, October 06, 2025	Full Moon / Supermoon	Supermoon
Tuesday, October 21, 2025	New Moon	New Moon
Wednesday, October 22, 2025	Orionids Meteor Shower	Meteor Shower
Friday, October 24, 2025	Core Visibility Ends	MW Core
Tuesday, November 04, 2025	Taurids Meteor Shower	Meteor Shower
Wednesday, November 05, 2025	Supermoon	Supermoon
Saturday, November 22, 2025	210P/Christensen at its brightest	Comet
Tuesday, November 18, 2025	Leonids Meteor Shower	Meteor Shower
Wednesday, November 19, 2025	New Moon	New Moon
Thursday, December 04, 2025	SuperMoon	Supermoon
Saturday, December 13, 2025	Geminids Meteor Shower	Meteor Shower
Friday, December 19, 2025	New Moon	New Moon
Sunday, December 21, 2025	Winter Solstice	Solstice
Tuesday, December 23, 2025	Ursids Meteor Shower	Meteor Shower

2. January 2025: A Bright Start to the Year

While the Milky Way is visible every night, the Galactic Center remains hidden in January. By the end of the month, a faint glimpse of the core becomes visible in southern regions, but for most photographers, the season truly begins in February or March.

Despite this, January offers plenty of celestial wonders for photographers. From meteor showers and comets to lunar events, there’s no shortage of opportunities to capture the night sky.

Key Highlights for January 2025

Here’s a list of January’s most notable astronomical events:

January 3: Quadrantids Meteor Shower (Peak)

Description: One of the year’s major meteor showers, with a peak rate of 110 meteors per hour.
Timing: Peak occurs at 08:18 UTC.
Visibility: Best viewed from the Northern Hemisphere.
Moon Phase: 13% illuminated, offering good viewing conditions.
Tips: Use tools to check local Moonset times and plan your session for after the Moon sets.

January 13: Full Moon

Description: The Moon is fully illuminated, offering stunning photo opportunities.
Timing: Full Moon occurs at 04:27 UTC.
Tips: Plan compositions with foreground elements or capture the Moonrise for a dramatic effect.

January 13: C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) at Its Brightest

Description: A sungrazing comet expected to reach a magnitude of 0.6.
Visibility: Challenging to observe due to its proximity to the Sun. May only be visible in the Southern Hemisphere about a week after perihelion, when it dims significantly.
Tips: Use a telescope with proper solar protection to safely attempt observations near perihelion.

January 29: New Moon

Description: A completely dark sky, perfect for night sky photography.
Timing: New Moon occurs at 09:54 UTC.
Tips: Utilize the dark skies to capture star trails or deep-sky objects.

Ongoing January Opportunities

Star Trails: Take advantage of the New Moon on January 29 to capture mesmerizing trails.
Comet Observations: Keep an eye on updates for C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) visibility.
Winter Landscapes: Pair celestial events with dramatic seasonal backdrops.

January sets the tone for a year of astrophotography adventures. With careful planning and the right tools, you’ll be able to make the most of these incredible events. Keep checking the skies and plan your shoots wisely!

3. February 2025: A Galactic Awakening

February marks the beginning of the Milky Way season in some locations. While the Galactic Center starts to make brief appearances above the horizon, most photographers will have to wait until March to capture it at its peak visibility. Still, February offers incredible celestial events that shouldn’t be missed!

From a stunning Full Moon to the start of the Galactic Core’s visibility in some southern regions, February offers a range of exciting opportunities to elevate your astrophotography.

Key Highlights for February 2025

Here’s a list of February’s most notable astronomical events:

February 12: Full Moon

Description: The Moon is fully illuminated, providing excellent opportunities for creative compositions.
Timing: Full Moon occurs at 15:30 UTC.
Tips: Capture the Moonrise or Moonset for a dramatic effect, especially with interesting foreground elements.

February 23: Core Visibility Starts

Description: The Galactic Core of the Milky Way becomes visible for a short time in certain southern regions.
Timing: Late evening to early morning (depends on your location).
Tips: Use tools like PhotoPills to determine the best time and location for capturing the Core’s brief appearance.

February 27: New Moon

Description: The Moon is completely dark, offering optimal conditions for astrophotography.
Timing: New Moon occurs at 22:55 UTC.
Tips: Take advantage of the dark skies to capture deep-sky objects, star trails, and even early glimpses of the Galactic Core in southern regions.

Ongoing February Opportunities

Milky Way Core: Check visibility in your region as the Galactic Center begins to appear in southern skies.
Winter Landscapes: Pair February’s celestial events with striking seasonal backdrops.
Dark Skies: The New Moon on February 27 offers a perfect opportunity for deep-sky imaging.

February offers a taste of what’s to come as the Milky Way season begins. Plan your sessions carefully, and make the most of this exciting month of astrophotography!

4. March 2025: Eclipses and Equinox

March brings a mix of celestial wonders, from a spectacular Total Lunar Eclipse to the spring equinox, signaling longer days and even more opportunities for astrophotography. The Galactic Core also becomes more visible this month, especially in southern regions, making it an exciting time for photographers.

With its blend of lunar events and seasonal transitions, March is a month full of opportunities to capture the beauty of the night sky.

Key Highlights for March 2025

Here’s a list of March’s most notable astronomical events:

March 14: Total Lunar Eclipse and Full Moon

Description: A Total Lunar Eclipse coinciding with the Full Moon offers stunning photographic possibilities.
Timing: Full Moon and Total Lunar Eclipse occur at 22:06 UTC.
Visibility: The eclipse will be visible in many parts of the world. Check your location for specific viewing times.
Tips: Use a tripod and telephoto lens to capture the dramatic color changes during the eclipse phases.

March 20: Spring Equinox

Description: The equinox marks the moment when day and night are nearly equal in length, signaling the start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.
Timing: Occurs at 03:02 UTC.
Tips: Use this event as an opportunity to pair astrophotography with sunrise or sunset shots for unique compositions.

March 29: New Moon

Description: A completely dark sky provides perfect conditions for night sky photography.
Timing: New Moon occurs at 18:58 UTC.
Tips: Focus on capturing the Milky Way or deep-sky objects with minimal light pollution.

Ongoing March Opportunities

Total Lunar Eclipse: Plan your session carefully to capture each phase of the eclipse.
Galactic Core: The Milky Way’s Galactic Center becomes more visible as the season progresses, particularly in southern regions.
Seasonal Transitions: Use the equinox to combine astrophotography with landscapes that highlight the changing seasons.

March offers a mix of dramatic events and transitions, making it a fantastic month to expand your astrophotography portfolio. Prepare your gear and take full advantage of these celestial phenomena!

5. April 2025: Showers of Light

April ushers in the Lyrids Meteor Shower and the first Full Moon of spring, making it a fantastic month for astrophotographers. The Galactic Core is becoming increasingly visible, offering more opportunities to capture the heart of the Milky Way. With warmer nights and longer shooting windows, April is a rewarding time to embrace the night sky.

From meteor showers to the New Moon’s perfect darkness, April is filled with opportunities to create stunning nightscape images.

Key Highlights for April 2025

Here’s a list of April’s most notable astronomical events:

April 12: Full Moon

Description: The first Full Moon of spring, also known as the Pink Moon, is a great opportunity for creative compositions.
Timing: Full Moon occurs at 10:24 UTC.
Tips: Pair the Full Moon with blooming landscapes for vibrant springtime shots.

April 22: Lyrids Meteor Shower (Peak)

Description: The Lyrids Meteor Shower, known for its fast and bright meteors, peaks this night.
Timing: Peak occurs at 17:00 UTC.
Visibility: Best viewed in the Northern Hemisphere with minimal Moon interference this year.
Tips: Use a wide-angle lens and shoot continuously to capture multiple meteors in one frame.

April 27: New Moon

Description: The dark skies of a New Moon create the perfect conditions for astrophotography.
Timing: New Moon occurs at 02:18 UTC.
Tips: Take advantage of the moonless skies to capture the Milky Way or deep-sky objects.

Ongoing April Opportunities

Lyrids Meteor Shower: Capture the meteors during their peak on April 22 or in the days surrounding the event.
Milky Way Core: The Galactic Center becomes more prominent, offering stunning compositions for wide-field astrophotography.
Spring Landscapes: Combine astrophotography with blooming flowers or vibrant springtime scenery for unique images.

April offers a mix of dynamic and serene celestial events. Whether you’re capturing meteors or the timeless beauty of the Milky Way, this month is perfect for expanding your creativity and refining your skills under the night sky.

6. May 2025: Galactic Views and Falling Stars

May offers prime conditions for astrophotography, with the Galactic Core becoming a prominent feature of the night sky. The Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower lights up the early part of the month, and the New Moon ensures dark skies for capturing deep-sky objects and stunning Milky Way compositions.

With mild weather and long shooting windows, May is a perfect time to explore new locations and elevate your night photography.

Key Highlights for May 2025

Here’s a list of May’s most notable astronomical events:

May 6: Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower (Peak)

Description: The Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower, produced by Halley’s Comet, peaks in early May with fast, bright meteors.
Timing: Peak occurs at 03:00 UTC.
Visibility: Best viewed from the Southern Hemisphere, with good visibility in tropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere.
Tips: Aim your camera towards the radiant in the constellation Aquarius for the best chance of capturing meteors.

May 12: Full Moon

Description: A bright Full Moon dominates the night sky, providing a great opportunity for lunar photography.
Timing: Full Moon occurs at 08:44 UTC.
Tips: Use a telephoto lens to capture close-up details of the lunar surface or pair the Moon with interesting foreground elements.

May 26: New Moon

Description: The New Moon creates perfect dark-sky conditions for astrophotography.
Timing: New Moon occurs at 06:32 UTC.
Tips: Focus on Milky Way photography or explore deep-sky objects like nebulae and galaxies.

Ongoing May Opportunities

Eta Aquariids Meteor Shower: Capture meteors in the days leading up to and after the peak for a wider shooting window.
Milky Way Core: May offers excellent visibility of the Galactic Center in the southern and tropical Northern Hemisphere skies.
Spring Landscapes: Use seasonal flowers, mountains, or other natural features to enhance your astrophotography compositions.

May is an exciting month for astrophotographers, with opportunities to capture dynamic meteor showers and breathtaking views of the Milky Way. Plan your shoots carefully to make the most of the dark skies and celestial events this month has to offer.

7. June 2025: Solstice Skies and Summer Radiance

June brings long days and short nights in the Northern Hemisphere, but the celestial events this month are worth staying up late for. From the Summer Solstice to a bright Full Moon, and the New Moon providing dark skies, June is a month of contrasts and opportunities.

The Galactic Core remains a prominent feature, offering fantastic chances to create vivid nightscapes. The beauty of summer skies awaits your camera.

Key Highlights for June 2025

Here’s a list of June’s most notable astronomical events:

June 11: Full Moon

Description: The bright Full Moon of June, also known as the Strawberry Moon, dominates the night sky.
Timing: Full Moon occurs at 11:42 UTC.
Tips: Use creative compositions with reflective surfaces, like lakes or rivers, to enhance your lunar images.

June 21: Summer Solstice

Description: The longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, marking the start of summer.
Timing: Occurs at 14:51 UTC.
Tips: Pair sunset or twilight shots with landmarks or unique landscapes to celebrate this seasonal transition.

June 25: New Moon

Description: A completely dark sky creates ideal conditions for astrophotography.
Timing: New Moon occurs at 10:42 UTC.
Tips: Focus on capturing the Milky Way or explore deep-sky objects, especially in remote, light-pollution-free areas.

Ongoing June Opportunities

Milky Way Core: The Galactic Center remains highly visible and is a must-shoot feature for wide-angle astrophotography.
Summer Solstice Landscapes: Combine solstice lighting with astrophotography for unique compositions during twilight hours.
Dark Skies: Utilize the New Moon on June 25 for capturing faint deep-sky objects and detailed star trails.

June’s celestial events provide a perfect balance of bright lunar displays and dark, star-filled skies. With the Galactic Core in its prime, and the allure of the Summer Solstice, this month offers countless opportunities to expand your astrophotography portfolio.

8. July 2025: Meteor Showers Under Midsummer Skies

July is an exciting month for astrophotographers, with the Delta Aquariids Meteor Shower and the Full Moon lighting up the night sky. The Galactic Core continues to be a dominant feature, and the New Moon provides opportunities for deep-sky and Milky Way photography.

With warm nights and meteor activity, July is the perfect time to gather your gear and capture the beauty of the cosmos.

Key Highlights for July 2025

Here’s a list of July’s most notable astronomical events:

July 10: Full Moon

Description: The Full Moon of July, also known as the Buck Moon, dominates the night sky with its brilliance.
Timing: Full Moon occurs at 03:00 UTC.
Tips: Use this opportunity to create Moonrise or Moonset compositions with iconic summer landscapes.

July 24: New Moon

Description: A completely dark sky provides excellent conditions for astrophotography.
Timing: New Moon occurs at 16:31 UTC.
Tips: Focus on the Milky Way or deep-sky photography in remote, light-pollution-free locations.

July 29: Delta Aquariids Meteor Shower (Peak)

Description: The Delta Aquariids Meteor Shower peaks in late July, producing long, slow-moving meteors.
Timing: Peak occurs at 02:00 UTC.
Visibility: Best viewed from the Southern Hemisphere and tropical regions of the Northern Hemisphere.
Tips: Aim your camera toward the radiant near the constellation Aquarius for the best chance of capturing meteors.

Ongoing July Opportunities

Milky Way Core: The Galactic Center remains a highlight of summer skies, offering incredible opportunities for wide-angle compositions.
Meteor Showers: Capture meteors from the Delta Aquariids, with opportunities both before and after the peak.
Summer Landscapes: Pair celestial events with vibrant summer scenery, such as fields, mountains, or coastlines.

July’s celestial events combine the magic of meteor showers and the grandeur of the Milky Way. With clear, warm nights and captivating displays, this month provides endless possibilities to expand your astrophotography portfolio.

9. August 2025: Galactic Peaks and Perseids Perfection

August is a standout month for astrophotographers, highlighted by the Perseids Meteor Shower, one of the year’s most popular celestial events. The Galactic Core remains at its peak visibility, and the New Moon provides the perfect dark skies to capture stunning images of the Milky Way.

With warm nights and spectacular displays, August is a golden opportunity to capture the brilliance of the night sky.

Key Highlights for August 2025

Here’s a list of August’s most notable astronomical events:

August 9: Full Moon

Description: The Full Moon of August, known as the Sturgeon Moon, lights up the night sky.
Timing: Full Moon occurs at 18:55 UTC.
Tips: Use this bright lunar display as a chance to create unique compositions with large foreground elements.

August 13: Perseids Meteor Shower (Peak)

Description: The Perseids Meteor Shower is renowned for its bright, fast-moving meteors, often with persistent trails.
Timing: Peak occurs at 09:00 UTC.
Visibility: Best viewed in the Northern Hemisphere, with minimal interference from the waning crescent Moon.
Tips: Use a wide-angle lens and point your camera towards the radiant in the constellation Perseus for optimal results.

August 23: New Moon

Description: The New Moon creates ideal conditions for dark-sky photography.
Timing: New Moon occurs at 19:11 UTC.
Tips: Focus on capturing the Milky Way, particularly in remote locations with minimal light pollution.

Ongoing August Opportunities

Perseids Meteor Shower: Capture meteors in the days before and after the peak for additional shooting opportunities.
Milky Way Core: August offers some of the best visibility of the Galactic Center, making it a prime time for wide-field astrophotography.
Summer Landscapes: Combine celestial events with vibrant summer scenery, such as beaches, mountains, or rural fields.

August’s combination of meteor showers and Milky Way photography makes it one of the most exciting months for astrophotographers. Take full advantage of the dark skies and warm nights to capture the magic of the cosmos.

10. September 2025: Harvest Moons and Shadowy Eclipses

September brings the transition from summer to fall in the Northern Hemisphere, accompanied by celestial events like the Harvest Moon and a Total Lunar Eclipse. The Galactic Core remains visible early in the month, providing photographers with one last chance to capture its beauty before it fades.

With longer nights and cooler temperatures, September is an excellent time to embrace the changing seasons and the magic of the night sky.

Key Highlights for September 2025

Here’s a list of September’s most notable astronomical events:

September 7: Full Moon and Total Lunar Eclipse

Description: The Harvest Moon coincides with a Total Lunar Eclipse, making this a must-capture event.
Timing: Eclipse peaks at 20:00 UTC, and Full Moon occurs at 23:05 UTC.
Visibility: The eclipse will be visible in many parts of the world. Check your location for specific viewing times.
Tips: Use a tripod and telephoto lens to capture the Moon’s transformation during the eclipse phases.

September 21: New Moon

Description: A completely dark sky offers optimal conditions for astrophotography.
Timing: New Moon occurs at 12:33 UTC.
Tips: Take advantage of the moonless skies to photograph deep-sky objects and star trails.

Ongoing September Opportunities

Total Lunar Eclipse: Plan your session to capture the eclipse’s dramatic phases and colors.
Galactic Core: Early September offers a final opportunity to photograph the Milky Way’s Galactic Center before it disappears from view.
Autumn Landscapes: Use the changing foliage to add a seasonal touch to your nightscapes.

September’s celestial events, including the Harvest Moon and Total Lunar Eclipse, make it a remarkable month for astrophotography. As the seasons shift, embrace the beauty of the night sky and the stunning transitions of nature.

11. October 2025: Supermoons and Stellar Displays

October is an exciting month for astrophotographers, featuring a spectacular Supermoon and the Orionids Meteor Shower. The darker nights of autumn provide perfect conditions for capturing celestial events, and the changing landscapes add a seasonal charm to your images.

With the Milky Way fading from view, October is an opportunity to shift focus to other cosmic wonders and seasonal compositions.

Key Highlights for October 2025

Here’s a list of October’s most notable astronomical events:

October 6: Full Moon / Supermoon

Description: October’s Supermoon appears larger and brighter than a typical Full Moon, making it a stunning subject for lunar photography.
Timing: Full Moon occurs at 09:24 UTC.
Tips: Use a wide-angle lens to include foreground elements or a telephoto lens to capture detailed close-ups of the Moon.

October 21: New Moon

Description: The New Moon creates optimal conditions for dark-sky photography.
Timing: New Moon occurs at 14:56 UTC.
Tips: Focus on deep-sky objects or long-exposure star trails in areas with minimal light pollution.

October 22: Orionids Meteor Shower (Peak)

Description: The Orionids, produced by Halley’s Comet, are known for their bright, fast-moving meteors.
Timing: Peak occurs at 02:00 UTC.
Visibility: Best viewed in both hemispheres, with minimal interference from the waning crescent Moon.
Tips: Point your camera toward the radiant near the constellation Orion and use a wide-angle lens to capture multiple meteors in one shot.

Ongoing October Opportunities

Supermoon: Take advantage of October’s Supermoon to experiment with creative lunar compositions.
Orionids Meteor Shower: Capture meteors in the days before and after the peak for extended opportunities.
Autumn Landscapes: Incorporate the warm tones of autumn foliage into your astrophotography for unique seasonal images.

October’s Supermoon and Orionids Meteor Shower make it an ideal month for astrophotographers. As the seasons change, take advantage of the darker nights and vibrant autumn backdrops to create memorable compositions.

12. November 2025: Comets, Supermoons, and Shooting Stars

November is packed with celestial events, including a dazzling Supermoon, the Leonids Meteor Shower, and even a bright comet. As the nights grow longer and colder, the skies provide plenty of opportunities for stunning astrophotography.

With dark skies and vibrant celestial activity, November is the perfect time to capture the magic of the cosmos.

Key Highlights for November 2025

Here’s a list of November’s most notable astronomical events:

November 5: Supermoon

Description: The November Supermoon appears larger and brighter, making it a standout subject for lunar photography.
Timing: Supermoon occurs at 09:27 UTC.
Tips: Use a telephoto lens to capture close-up details or include foreground elements for creative compositions.

November 18: Leonids Meteor Shower (Peak)

Description: The Leonids are known for their fast and bright meteors, with occasional fireballs.
Timing: Peak occurs at 23:00 UTC.
Visibility: Best viewed from the Northern Hemisphere, with minimal interference from the New Moon.
Tips: Use a wide-angle lens and long exposures to capture multiple meteors in one frame.

November 19: New Moon

Description: A completely dark sky provides ideal conditions for astrophotography.
Timing: New Moon occurs at 14:27 UTC.
Tips: Focus on deep-sky objects and star trails in remote locations with minimal light pollution.

November 22: 210P/Christensen at Its Brightest

Description: This periodic comet reaches a magnitude of 8.3, visible through large binoculars.
Visibility: Best viewed from the Northern Hemisphere during the night.
Tips: Use a telescope or binoculars and aim to photograph the comet with a wide-field lens to include nearby stars for context.

Ongoing November Opportunities

Supermoon: Experiment with creative compositions to make the most of November’s bright Supermoon.
Leonids Meteor Shower: Capture meteors on the nights surrounding the peak for extended shooting opportunities.
Comet Photography: Use the dark skies near the New Moon to photograph 210P/Christensen in all its brilliance.

November’s celestial events, from the Supermoon to the Leonids and comet sightings, make it a dynamic and rewarding month for astrophotographers. Plan your sessions carefully to capture these unique phenomena and expand your portfolio.

13. December 2025: A Celestial Finale

December brings a spectacular close to the year, featuring the dazzling Geminids and Ursids Meteor Showers, a Supermoon, and the Winter Solstice. The long, dark nights provide perfect conditions for astrophotography, making December one of the most rewarding months to explore the night sky.

From shooting stars to bright moons, December offers a celestial finale that’s not to be missed.

Key Highlights for December 2025

Here’s a list of December’s most notable astronomical events:

December 4: Supermoon

Description: The final Supermoon of the year shines brightly in the night sky, offering excellent opportunities for lunar photography.
Timing: Supermoon occurs at 02:13 UTC.
Tips: Capture the Moonrise or Moonset to pair the Supermoon with a dramatic landscape.

December 13: Geminids Meteor Shower (Peak)

Description: The Geminids, one of the most active meteor showers of the year, produces bright, colorful meteors.
Timing: Peak occurs at 06:00 UTC.
Visibility: Best viewed from both hemispheres, with minimal interference from the waning crescent Moon.
Tips: Use a wide-angle lens and point your camera toward the radiant near the constellation Gemini.

December 19: New Moon

Description: A completely dark sky provides ideal conditions for astrophotography.
Timing: New Moon occurs at 10:59 UTC.
Tips: Take advantage of the moonless skies to capture deep-sky objects or create stunning star trail compositions.

December 21: Winter Solstice

Description: The Winter Solstice marks the longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, providing extended opportunities for night photography.
Timing: Occurs at 03:20 UTC.
Tips: Pair solstice shots with seasonal foreground elements like snowy landscapes or festive lights.

December 23: Ursids Meteor Shower (Peak)

Description: The Ursids Meteor Shower is a quieter but beautiful event, with around 10 meteors per hour at its peak.
Timing: Peak occurs at 10:00 UTC.
Visibility: Best viewed from the Northern Hemisphere, with minimal interference from the waxing crescent Moon.
Tips: Aim your camera toward the radiant near the constellation Ursa Minor for the best chance of capturing meteors.

Ongoing December Opportunities

Supermoon: Experiment with December’s bright Supermoon for dramatic lunar compositions.
Meteor Showers: Capture the brilliance of the Geminids and Ursids meteor showers for dynamic nightscapes.
Seasonal Landscapes: Use snowy, festive, or winter-themed backdrops to enhance your astrophotography compositions.

December closes the year with a celestial showcase, from Supermoons to meteor showers and the Winter Solstice. Make the most of this magical month to capture stunning nightscapes and celebrate the beauty of the cosmos.

Closing Thoughts: Capturing the Cosmos in 2025

As we wrap up this guide to the astronomical events of 2025, it’s clear that the year ahead is filled with breathtaking opportunities for astrophotographers. From mesmerizing meteor showers and bright Supermoons to the ever-enchanting Galactic Core, the night sky offers endless chances to create awe-inspiring images.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just beginning your astrophotography journey, careful planning and a sense of curiosity are your greatest tools. Use this guide to map out your sessions, experiment with different techniques, and challenge yourself to capture the night sky in new and exciting ways.

Remember, every celestial event is unique, and the beauty of astrophotography lies in how you interpret and share your view of the universe. Be patient, embrace the quiet solitude of the night, and let your creativity guide you as you photograph the stars, planets, and galaxies that inspire us all.

Final Tips for 2025:

• Plan Ahead: Use tools like PhotoPills or Stellarium to map out your shoots and maximize your time under the stars.

• Experiment: Try new techniques, compositions, and settings to push the boundaries of your creativity.

• Stay Curious: Explore new locations, observe different phenomena, and always look for fresh perspectives in the night sky.

• Share Your Work: Inspire others by sharing your astrophotography on social media, in galleries, or within your local community.

The night sky is a canvas of infinite possibilities. As you capture the cosmos in 2025, remember to savor each moment and let the wonders of the universe inspire your art.

Clear skies and happy shooting!

2025 Astrophotography Events: A Definitive Guide

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