Yes, it’s that time of year when our Autumn star shines bright in our sky, but that’s not the only thing that keeps the Tigard Tigers excited. To start off this week we have a special treat, and it has nothing to do with our sky! Halloween is Monday Oct. 31 so while you’re out patrolling the dark streets look up into the sky, or surprise your fellow trick-or-treaters with your cool sky facts. And for the many week days after this night? How about when you’re snacking on your pillowcase full of candy you grap a pair of binoculars, or a telescope if you have one, and peer up into the night?
Monday, Oct. 31
It’s Halloween! While us highschoolers are out reliving our younger days trick-or-treating, and hopfully not stealing candy from kids, we can take a break and look up into the spooky sky to see a waxing crescent moon. It will be lowering in the Southwest as Jupiter rises in the East.
Tuesday, Nov. 1
We all know what season it is, but let’s start off the new month with an oddly named group of stars… the Summer Triangle. To make up the three points of this Summer shape, look high in the west for Vega. Above this, try to spot Deneb, and to Vega’s lower left, Altair.
Wednesday, Nov. 2
At sunset in the south, when the sky begins to turn the same reds and oranges as the leaves on the trees, look for a First-Quarter Moon rising.
Thursday, Nov. 3
Try to spot the Autumn star, Fomalhaut, to the lower left of the moon, truly signaling the season.
Friday, Nov. 4
At 8:07 to 10:17 p.m. grab your equipment to find Jupiter’s moon, Io, cast a shadow across Jupiter. Also, around 9:45, the great red spot of Jupiter should pass its central meridian.
Saturday, Nov. 5
Daylight saving time is ending. For most of North America it ends at 2:00 a.m., Sunday morning. Clocks will fall back an hour. Also, as you set your clocks back, check the upper left of the moon for the Great Square of Pegasus.
After a long week filled with more candy than usual, and enough creepy costumes to last you until next year, start preparing for the expected rain. Try to see as much as you can through the cloud breaks because it’s coming. And also, get excited for the next holiday… Thanksgiving!