Sky Watch, August
August 1, 2025
by Peter Lutken
We’ve had some rain and cooler weather, but the "Dog Days" of August are finally here. Sirius, the Dog Star, is very bright and close to the sun this time of year. Ancient Egyptians thought it added to the sun's heat, and I believe them!
When it pulls ahead of the sun in the mornings, we'll start to cool off, but that's still weeks away.
Evening Skies: The summer stars of Sagittarius, Scorpio, and the Summer Triangle are high in the sky. They'll drop lower into the west as we get closer to fall. Perseid Meteor Shower is a late-night show on August 12-13 and could be good if you are away from the city!
Full Moon: August 9.
Morning Skies: Venus and Jupiter are becoming a bright pair in the east! Orion is just behind them, rising ahead of the sun.
Quarry/Outdoors: Chimney Swifts fill the air, cicadas are singing, and Green Herons are hunting. The photo is of a Black Swallowtail resting in the heat!
School starts soon, ready or not, but get outside when you can. You never know what you’ll see!
PKL
