As we step into the new year, New Yorkers have an astronomical treat in store! Stargazers can ring in 2025 by marveling at the stunning Quadrantid meteor shower, which will dazzle the night sky during the first five days of January. With a peak performance expected to deliver up to 40 shooting stars per hour, this meteor shower promises an unforgettable spectacle for all who look up.

But that’s not all—January’s astronomical highlight is the red planet, Mars, which will be at its brightest and largest for the year! This is an exceptional time for astronomy enthusiasts, as various star clusters will also be on display throughout the month, making for a celestial event not to be missed.

Frank Bifulco, a dedicated member of the Rockland Astronomy Club, shared valuable insights about the stargazing conditions in January. “The good news is that celestial objects appear much earlier in the evening,” he said. However, he did note the downside of winter: “The bad thing is it’s cold out, and that’s the trade-off with the winter.” For those brave enough to bundle up and brave the chill, the rewards of the night sky await!

At the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve, party-goers can catch a glimpse of the Beehive star cluster shining brightly in the southern sky, nestled in the constellation Canis Major, just underneath the dazzling Sirius, the brightest star in the night.

Throughout January, two additional star clusters, the bluish Pleiades and the yellowish Hyades, will be visible in the Taurus constellation during the early evening hours. Don’t miss the moon’s captivating appearance right next to the Pleiades on January 9—an enchanting sight to mark on your calendar!

“The Pleiades are a super-bright blue,” noted Kat Troche, a NASA solar system ambassador, emphasizing its significance in the night sky.

But the planetary action doesn’t stop there! On January 3, keep your eyes peeled for Venus, which will shine brightly just below and to the right of the moon at sunset. Its radiance means it will be one of the most prominent objects in the western sky, making it visible even amidst the bustling lights of Midtown Manhattan.

Adding to the planetary lineup, Saturn will be making its appearance on January 4, positioned beneath and to the right of the moon—a lovely sight for any astronomy lover!

The primary attraction remains Mars, however, as it prepares for an extraordinary cosmic event on January 13. At 9:21 p.m., this captivating red planet will experience an occultation, disappearing behind the moon for just over an hour, only to re-emerge and delight watchers with its bright red glow. Such occurrences are rare within New York City, making this an unmissable event!

Just three days later, Mars will reach opposition, the point at which it’s closest to Earth, fully illuminated and commanding the night sky. “Mars is going to be very easy to find because it’s going to be right near the moon,” Troche explained. “It'll be this bright-red color. You cannot miss it.”

So, as we prepare to embrace 2025, let the stars guide you into the new year. Bundle up, head outside, and witness the spectacular show unfolding above. Don’t let the chill deter your spirit—there’s a universe waiting to be discovered!