Multiple Meteor Showers: November features three meteor showers, including the noteworthy Leonids, which promise an exciting celestial display this month.
Moon Phases: The New Moon on November 1 sets the stage for observing a thin crescent Moon visible after sunset on November 2
Key Moon Dates: Key lunar phases include the First Quarter on November 8, the Full Moon (supermoon) on November 15, and the Last Quarter on November 22-23.
Evening Planets: Look for Venus shining brightly as the evening star, especially near the crescent Moon on November 4, and visible after sunset throughout the month.
Saturn and Jupiter: Saturn appears in the southern sky after sunset, while Jupiter rises with Orion and brightens leading up to its opposition on December 7.
Mars Visibility: Mars can be seen rising late evening, following Jupiter’s path across the sky. Its distinct orange hue makes it identifiable even in light-polluted areas.
Meteor Shower Peaks: The Southern Taurids peak on November 4-5, while the Northern Taurids peak on November 11-12, each producing about five meteors per hour.
Leonids Meteor Shower: The Leonids will peak on November 16-17. Despite the bright moonlight, viewers can still catch a few meteors, especially in dark skies before dawn.