Month By Month Guide To Exploring The Skies Above Australia, New Zealand, And Beyond

The vast expanse of the night sky has long captured the imagination of mankind. From the ancient civilizations who used the stars for navigation to the modern-day astronomers uncovering the mysteries of the cosmos, gazing at the heavens above has always been a source of wonder and fascination.

Australia and New Zealand, with their clear skies and minimal light pollution, offer some of the best views of the southern hemisphere's celestial wonders. Whether you are a professional astronomer or an amateur stargazer, embarking on a month-by-month journey to explore the skies above these stunning countries will leave you awestruck and inspired.

January: Welcome the New Year with stargazing experiences that will take your breath away. In Australia, the Southern Cross constellation dominates the night sky, guiding you to other dazzling celestial landmarks like the Eta Carinae nebula. New Zealand's Te Mata Peak offers the perfect vantage point to witness the mesmerizing beauty of the Milky Way.

2021 Guide to the Night Sky Southern Hemisphere: A month-by-month guide to exploring the skies above Australia, New Zealand and South Africa

by Kellyanne Conway (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	100329 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	112 pages

FREE

February: As summer lingers, embrace the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring Southern Lights, also known as the Aurora Australis. Tasmania, one of the southernmost points of Australia, provides an ideal location to catch these captivating dancing lights. In New Zealand, the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve provides unparalleled views of the vibrant night sky.

March: Autumn arrives, bringing with it a stunning array of celestial events. Don't miss the closest approach of Mars to Earth, known as the opposition. Grab your telescope and head to the Australian Outback or the remote areas of New Zealand for an extraordinary view of the red planet.

April: As winter creeps in, Australia's pristine stargazing destinations like Uluru and the Pinnacles glow under the brilliance of the constellations. In New Zealand, Lake Tekapo unveils its magic as the famous Church of the Good Shepherd stands as an ethereal silhouette against the starry backdrop.

May: Brace yourself for the dazzling meteor showers of May. The Eta Aquarids, caused by the debris of Halley's Comet, light up the sky with their spectacular display. Head to the Australian coast or the tranquil shores of Lake Wanaka in New Zealand for an enchanting view of these shooting stars.

June: Winter is here, and the magical Southern Cross and the Jewel Box Cluster shine bright in the southern skies. Amidst the snow-capped peaks of Mount Cook in New Zealand, witness the grandeur of the cosmos from the comfort of an observatory.

July: Take advantage of the clear winter nights to explore the celestial wonders of the Magellanic Clouds. Located in the southern hemisphere, these dwarf galaxies are visible with the naked eye in both Australia and New Zealand.

August: Spring is just around the corner, and the skies are teeming with celestial delights. Visit the Sydney Observatory in Australia for a guided tour of the night sky, or make your way to the shores of Lake Tekapo in New Zealand to witness the ethereal beauty of the stars reflected in its crystal-clear waters.

September: As the days grow longer, the Southern Cross shares the stage with the famous Orion constellation. Embark on a journey to the Southern Highlands of Australia or the Mount John Observatory in New Zealand to witness the celestial ballet of these iconic constellations.

October: Catch a glimpse of the shimmering Zodiacal Light, a cone of faint light that extends along the ecliptic. In Australia, the remote Western MacDonnell Ranges offer a breathtaking backdrop for this celestial phenomenon. Alternatively, head to New Zealand's Franz Josef Glacier for a surreal stargazing experience.

November: The crisp spring nights offer the perfect conditions to witness the wonders of the universe. In Australia's Kangaroo Island, the Seal Bay Conservation Park unveils its charm under the magnificent southern skies. In New Zealand, the world-renowned Lake Pukaki showcases its celestial treasures.

December: As the year draws to a close, return to where it all began – the Southern Cross. This iconic constellation bids farewell to the year, guiding your gaze towards the plethora of celestial wonders awaiting the next chapter of your stargazing adventure.

In , a month-by-month guide to exploring the skies above Australia, New Zealand, and beyond offers a truly captivating experience. Whether you are a seasoned astronomer or a curious beginner, the beauty of the southern hemisphere's celestial wonders will leave you in awe. So, pack your telescope, embrace the night, and embark on a journey through the breathtaking expanse of the Australian and New Zealand skies.

2021 Guide to the Night Sky Southern Hemisphere: A month-by-month guide to exploring the skies above Australia, New Zealand and South Africa

by Kellyanne Conway (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	100329 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	112 pages

FREE

A comprehensive handbook to the planets, stars and constellations visible from the southern hemisphere. 6 pages for each month covering January–December 2021.

Diagrams drawn for the latitude of southern Australia, but including events visible from New Zealand and South Africa.

Written and illustrated by astronomical experts, Storm Dunlop and Wil Tirion.

Content includes:

• Advice on where to start looking
• Easy-to-use star maps for each month with descriptions of what to see
• Special, detailed charts for positions of planets, minor planets and comets in 2021
• Seasonal charts
• Details of dark sky sites
• Details of objects and events you might see in 2021
• Diagrams of notable events visible from Australia, and some for New Zealand and South Africa

Also available: A month-by-month guide to exploring the skies above Britain and Ireland and
A month-by-month guide to exploring the skies above North America.