Mark Your Calendar for September's Best Skywatching Nights

The days are getting noticeably shorter as fall approaches, making this a great time to get some stargazing on your calendar. Here is a look at the September astronomical calendar, featuring a predawn planet parade and a full moon.

Orion Next to the Moon, Mars, and Jupiter - September 7

The first major astronomical event of the year will unfold on Monday, September 7. However, you will need to get up early to see it in action. Roughly one hour before sunrise, head outside to see the crescent moon glow alongside Mars and Jupiter. The well-recognized Orion constellation will shine nearby, serving as a guiding point to find the two planets. You may also catch a glimpse of Saturn at this time.

Stargazers will find this predawn celestial parade in the eastern sky. If cloudy conditions obstruct the view on Monday, you will get another chance to see the trio on Tuesday morning. However, the moon will devolve into a thinner strip by this time.

Fall Equinox - September 22

Although the meteorological fall officially starts on September 1, the beginning of the astronomical fall is not until September 22 at 8:05 pm EDT. The equinox is defined as the precise moment when the sun's direct rays move across the equator, resulting in the days and nights each coming in at 12 hours all over the world. The Northern Hemisphere will tip away from the sun following this moment, translating to longer nights and shorter days.

The arrival of September also brings a noticeable change in the amount of sunlight as the month progresses. The length of the day will slip by more than one hour for more than half of the U.S. The effects will be most dramatic in the northern tier of the country, dropping over 100 minutes of daylight from the beginning of the month to the end.

Harvest Moon - September 26

The first full moon of the fall season will rise on the night of September 26.  Known most commonly as the Harvest Moon due to its connection to the fall harvest season, this is always the full moon that rises closest to the September equinox.  Astronomers also note that Saturn will be in close view of the full moon at this time.

Farmers used to count on this full moon to provide extra light as they were harvesting the summer crops. In today's modern times, the Harvest Moon is a sign of the impending winter.

Other nicknames for the September full moon include the aptly named Autumn Moon, the Corn Moon, the Falling Leaves Moon, and the Rutting Moon. Whatever you call it, you will need clear skies to view it in its full splendor. Be sure to check back for the local forecast as the full moon date approaches.

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