This year, from October 20 to November 17, Muskoka: Home of the Stars invites you to gaze upward and witness the beauty of the stars. Here are four key events to mark on your calendar along with the 25+ stargazing events taking place across the region.
1. Hunter’s Moon – October 17, 2024
The first major celestial event is October’s Hunter’s Moon, which will reach peak illumination at 7:26 am on October 17. For the best viewing, head outside on the night of October 16 or 17. This full moon, also a supermoon, will appear larger and brighter than usual as it reaches its closest point to Earth. Traditionally, this moon marked the season when people would prepare for the colder months ahead, gathering provisions and ensuring food for winter.
Viewing Tip: Find an open spot with a clear view of the horizon, such as Lions Lookout or Huckleberry Rock Lookout, and watch the moonrise as it lights up the landscape.
2. Orionid Meteor Shower – October 20 to 21, 2024
Just a few days after the Hunter’s Moon, we’re treated to the Orionid Meteor Shower, which will peak from October 20 to 21. These meteors are fragments from Halley’s Comet and appear to radiate from the constellation Orion. At their peak, you can expect around 15 to 20 meteors per hour. However, with the brightness of the moon still lingering from the full Hunter’s Moon, the meteors may appear dimmer this year.
Viewing Tip: While the meteors might be harder to see due to moonlight, you can improve your chances by heading to Torrance Barrens Dark-Sky Preserve, where minimal light pollution will allow for a better view.
3. Beaver Moon – November 15, 2024
November’s Beaver Moon will be the last supermoon of 2024, peaking at 12:00 pm on November 15. While it reaches its peak during the day, the best viewing will be on the night of the 15th. The Beaver Moon has deep roots in tradition, as some say the name comes from the time when beavers build their dams to prepare for winter, while others believe it refers to the time when trappers would set their beaver traps before the water froze.
Viewing Tip: Watch this spectacular supermoon rise above the treeline from the serene shores from Dwight Beach on Lake of Bays or Arrowhead Provincial Park for a magical reflection on the water.
4. Leonid Meteor Shower – November 18, 2024
The Leonid Meteor Shower, caused by debris from Comet Tempel-Tuttle, will peak on November 18, 2024. The meteors will appear to radiate from Constellation Leo and are known for their speed, hurtling through the atmosphere at 71 km per second. On average, you’ll be able to spot 15 meteors per hour, though the brightness of the nearby full Beaver Moon may once again obscure the view. The Leonids are famous for producing meteor storms every 33 years, the last of which occurred in 2002.
Viewing Tip: For the best chance of catching the fast-moving Leonids, consider bundling up and camping out at Arrowhead Provincial Park, where you can combine stargazing with the peaceful surroundings.
Bonus Tip for Stargazers
Make your stargazing experience even more memorable by downloading a stargazing app like SkyView or Star Walk to help identify constellations, stars, and planets as you gaze at Muskoka’s clear, dark skies.
As you explore Muskoka: Home of the Stars this fall, be prepared to be amazed by the night skies. Click below to register for no cost.
