May 2025 promises stunning stargazing evenings for astronomy enthusiasts in the Northern Hemisphere. From meteor showers and passing comets to galaxy-rich constellations and lunar events, the spring sky is full of celestial treasures to explore. Here's a complete guide to what you can observe each week with your telescope or binoculars.

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🌠 May Meteor Showers

Eta Aquariids (until May 28)

These are remnants of the famous Halley's Comet. The peak is expected on May 5, 2025, with up to 50 meteors per hour under good conditions. Although more visible from the Southern Hemisphere, some fast and bright meteors can be spotted early in the morning, between 3 AM and 5 AM.

Eta Lyrids (May 8–19)

Less well known but just as fascinating, these meteors originate from the Lyra constellation. Their peak is around May 10 with a rate of 3 meteors per hour. Observation is favored by the low moonlight around that date.

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☄️ Comet C/2025 F2 (SWAN)

Discovered in March 2025, the comet C/2025 F2 SWAN will be visible to the naked eye from late April and will reach its perihelion on May 1. It may reach magnitude 5, or slightly better under a dark sky.

Initially visible at dawn, it will transition to the evening sky from mid-May. Look for it in the constellation of Taurus, then Gemini.

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🌌 Deep-Sky Objects to Observe

May is the perfect season to observe many galaxies visible in the constellations of Virgo, Coma Berenices, and Canes Venatici.

• Virgo Galaxies: M84, M86, M87 (Virgo Cluster)
• Whirlpool Galaxy (M51): located in Canes Venatici, visible even with a small telescope
• Ring Nebula (M57): a beautiful ring-shaped planetary nebula, visible with a 100 mm instrument or larger

These objects are perfect for practicing long-exposure astrophotography if you have a motorized equatorial mount.

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🌓 Lunar Phases and Observation Opportunities

• May 4: First Quarter
• May 12: Full Moon
• May 20: Last Quarter
• May 27: New Moon

The new moon on May 27 will offer the best conditions for deep-sky observing, free from light interference.

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🔭 Conjunctions and Planetary Encounters

• May 2: The Moon passes near the stars Castor and Pollux (Gemini constellation)
• May 3: Close conjunction between the Moon and Mars
• May 16: Venus and Jupiter visible at dawn, very low on the eastern horizon
• May 28: The Moon crosses the Leo constellation, a good time to spot Regulus

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✨ Constellations to Explore in May

• Virgo: rich in galaxies, especially in the Virgo Cluster field
• Lyra: featuring the famous star Vega and nebula M57
• Ursa Major: great for spotting M81 and M82
• Coma Berenices: dimmer but rich in objects for medium-power telescopes

Use a star map or mobile app to locate these constellations from your observing site.

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🧭 Tips for Observing in May

• Stay away from urban areas to avoid light pollution
• Prefer nights close to the new moon
• Choose a stable location with a clear horizon
• Dress warmly, as nights can still be chilly
• Use a reclining chair, star map, and suitable binoculars or telescopes
• Log your observations in a notebook or an app like SkySafari or Stellarium

 

May 2025 looks to be a rewarding month for stargazing. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced observer, you'll have the chance to follow a comet, admire distant galaxies, enjoy meteor showers, and explore spring sky classics. With the right gear and a bit of preparation, each night can become an unforgettable celestial adventure.

Clear skies and happy observing!