July has been one of the most attractive months of the year for those who enjoy looking at the sky. From two showers of starsconjunctions between the Moon and different planets, the full Moon known as «Deer Moon» and one of the best times to observe the center of the Milky Way.
On July 17, shortly after sunset, a fine crescent moon It will appear very close to Venus above the western horizon. The planet, which is the brightest object in the sky after the Moon, will remain visible for about two hours after sunset and will offer one of the most attractive postcards of the month to simply observe or photograph.
Another highlight will be the full moon on July 29, traditionally known as «Deer Moon.» The name comes from ancient indigenous communities located in North America, who associated this time of year with the rapid growth of new antlers on male deer.
As with all full moons, it will be at its best during its rising and setting, when the optical effect of the horizon makes it appear much larger.
Two meteor showers will close the month
The nights of July 30 and 31 will be marked by the peak activity of two meteor showers. The first will be that of the Southern Delta Aquaridsactive between July 12 and August 23.
On the same dates the Alpha Capricornid rain will also reach its maximum. Although it generates only about five meteors per hour, it is usually noted for its especially bright fireballs, capable of passing through even a sky partially illuminated by the Moon.
A these phenomena Added to this is the presence of the periodic comet 10P/Tempel 2, which will gain brightness throughout July and can be located with small telescopes at the beginning of the month and with binoculars towards the end of July, before reaching its maximum luminosity in August.
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