Celestial Events in December: Meteor Showers, Solstices, Black Moon & More

While most Americans are bundled up indoors to escape the winter chill, Florida’s winter skies offer the perfect opportunity for stargazing. The crisp, dry air clears the atmosphere, providing unparalleled views of celestial wonders. This December, a series of exciting cosmic events promises to dazzle stargazers across the state. Whether you are heading to a remote dark sky park or simply stepping outside into your backyard, here is a sneak peek at what you can look forward to:

Geminid Meteor Shower - December 13-14
​One of the best meteor showers of the year, the Geminids, will peak on the night of December 13. This annual event typically provides a spectacular display of meteors, but this year, the brilliance of a full moon will somewhat hinder visibility. Nonetheless, stargazers can still expect to catch some of the action, especially in areas with minimal light pollution.

Cold Moon - December 15
The December Full Moon, also known as the Cold Moon, will shine brightly on December 15. Traditionally, this moon gets its name from the long, chilly nights of winter. It is also a prime opportunity for lunar photography—whether you are a seasoned photographer or a casual enthusiast, tips for capturing the perfect shot of the Cold Moon will be widely shared.

Winter Solstice - December 21
The December solstice, occurring at 09:20 UTC on December 21, marks the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and the longest day in the Southern Hemisphere. While winter officially begins in the north, southern regions experience their summer solstice. This event will also bring the start of astronomical winter, with the sun reaching its southernmost point in the sky.

Ursid Meteor Shower - December 21-22
Another meteor shower, the Ursids, will peak around the night of December 21. While not as intense as the Geminids, the Ursids offer one last chance for stargazers to enjoy shooting stars in 2024. The Ursids are known for their steady stream of meteors, often visible even in slightly brighter skies.

Mercury at Greatest Elongation - December 25
On December 25, Mercury reaches its greatest elongation west, the farthest point from the Sun in the sky. This marks the seventh and final occurrence of the phenomenon in 2024. It is an excellent opportunity for skywatchers to spot Mercury.

Black New Moon - December 30
Finally, December concludes with a Black Moon on December 30. This rare event, when two New Moons occur within the same month, will offer a perfect opportunity for astronomers to focus on deep-sky objects, as the darkened sky from the lack of moon provides optimal viewing conditions