BUFFALO, N.Y. — While 2021 will be one of the least active years for local astronomy events, there are several chances for Western New Yorkers to lift their eyes to the night sky this year.
Below are the top astronomy events that will be visible across Western New York this year, in order of when they'll occur.
The Full Flower Moon, Supermoon and Total Lunar Eclipse on May 26, 2021. However, it will only be a partial lunar eclipse for the Northeast, visible in Buffalo from 4:47 a.m. to 5:47 a.m. with its maximum at 5:43 a.m.
"Ring of Fire" Solar Eclipse on June 10, 2021. But this will only be a partial solar eclipse for Buffalonians. Visible from 5:36 a.m. to 6:36 a.m. with a maximum around 5:39 a.m., proper eyewear will be needed to view this event. Do not look directly at the sun even if it's partially covered by the moon!
Peak of the Perseid Meteor Shower on August 12, 2021. A waning crescent moon means sky should be dark enough for a spectacular view of this annual meteor shower.
The Full Frost Moon, and Partial Lunar Eclipse on November 19, 2021. While this will only be a partial lunar eclipse, it will be visible for several hours. The event will begin at 1:02 a.m. and last until 7:03 a.m. with the maximum eclipse occurring at 4:02 a.m.
So these are just a few of the best and brightest astronomy events that are expected this year. A reason why there are so few events visible in the Northeast in 2021 is because of the lunar cycle. Many annual events, such as the Geminid and Lyrid Meteor Shower, will be hard to view with the moon nearly full.
And weather wise, we'll hope a cloudy sky doesn't get in our way of viewing the events too.
