Star Brightly: 3 Celestial Events to Observe This December

Between the holidays, the official welcoming of

winter, and the extensive evenings, the year's last month is a time to revel, reflect, and look up. Fortunately, the skies are in on the spirit of celebration, with a number of celestial events to inspire your awe.

December brings a duet of meteor showers and a new moon the darkened skies making for even better viewing. Mark these nights on your calendar and get outside, the better to bid 2022 a worthy farewell.

Taking the time to observe the stars and planets is a free activity that honors the Earth and its place (and ours) in the universe. During the month's parties, outings, and errands, don't forget to stop and scan the skies.

What better way to welcome the last leg of the season than with the biggest meteor shower of the year? The shower falls for most of the month, but

peaks on the 13th—slip into your sparkliest attire to echo the occasion.

The Ursids are among the

slower of showers, averaging five shooting stars each hour. But, considering that the year's last new moon arrives on December 23, the skies during the peak will be pitch black and primed for a high-shine sighting.

Bid adieu to the year with a super new moon. While not as striking (or visible) as a super full moon, know that this one will be very close—with all of the fresh-start energy that implies.