While recent weather patterns have recently obstructed our Dark Sky views, December is a month due to be full of astronomy events you can watch from your backyard. Following is a new monthly astronomy column by reporter, Jimmy Whalan, detailing the best views in the sky for the month ahead.

13-14 December ~ Geminids meteor shower 

Look to the north! The meteor shower is due to reach its peak around midnight on 13-14 December where you will be able to view up to 120 meteors per hour!

19 December ~ ‘Micro-moon’

The moon will appear particularly small in the sky on the evening of 19 December as the moon reaches its greatest distance from the earth.

22 December ~ The Summer Solstice

Marking the ‘start of summer,’ the Summer Solstice is the longest day of the year, when the earth has its maximum tilt toward the sun. This year’s Summer Solstice will occur around 5:47am on 22 December.

24 December ~ Santa Claus is coming

While sources from the North Pole tell us the exact time of Santa’s visit to Coonabarabran is classified, you can look to the skies to try and catch a glimpse of Santa and his reindeer. While he may be flying too fast to see, you can tell he is coming by the sound of the jingle bells on his sleigh. Sources tell us he is expected to leave the North Pole before midnight.

29 December ~ Venus and Mercury

On 29 December, those with a set of binoculars or even a telescope of their own will be able to see Venus and Mercury together in the evening sky, with the two planets close enough for both to fit in a telescopes view.

A special thanks to Coonabarabran Stargazing for their recommendations!