Big Bear Stargazing

Catch the Planetary Parade on Friday, February 28!

Stargazers have the chance to see Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune line up across the sky just after dusk on Fri, Feb 28, 2025.

Look to the West after the Sun sets and have some good binoculars or a telescope ready! Find a spot free of light pollution and a wide view of the horizon without obstructions like trees or tall buildings.

The planetary alignment is expected to conclude on Friday evening, though this time will vary based on the viewer's location.

Don't miss out!

Sidewalk Astronomy

The Big Bear Valley Astronomical Society will be setting up telescopes on the sidewalk in front of the Barrel 33 Wine Shop in the village for a free public meet and greet. Disclaimer: All astronomy events are free, begin at dusk and are weather permitting. Check here for cancellations.

Barrel 33, 40754 Village Dr

2025 Dates:

• May 3 from 7 PM – 9 PM – In the Village
• May 31 from 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM - In the Village

When the Moon is located on the same side of the Earth as the Sun, it will not be visible in the night sky. This is known as New Moon and is the best time of the month to observe celestial objects like galaxies and star clusters because there is no moonlight to interfere. Sourced from SeaSky.org

January 29

February 28

March 29

April 27

May 27

June 25

July 24

Mark these fascinating astronomical events on your calendars and enjoy some time outdoors under the beautiful Big Bear night sky! Sourced from SeaSky.org

January 16 - Mars at Opposition

Mars will be at its closest approach to Earth and its face will be fully illuminated by the Sun. It will be brighter than any other time of the year and will be visible all night long. This is the best time to view and photograph Mars.

February 28 - Planetary Alignment

Stargazers have the chance to see Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune line up across the sky just after dusk on Fri, Feb 28, 2025. This phenomenon will be short-lived so don't miss it! Look to the West after the Sun sets and have some good binoculars or a telescope ready!

March 8 - Mercury at Greatest Eastern Elongation

This is the best time to view Mercury since it will be at its highest point above the horizon in the evening sky. Look for the planet low in the western sky just after sunset.

March 14 - Total Lunar Eclipse

A total lunar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes through Earth's shadow, or umbra. During this eclipse, the Moon will get darker and take on a rusty, red color. The eclipse will be visible throughout North America, Mexico, Central America, and South America.

April 22 & 23 - Lyrids Meteor Shower

The Lyrids is produced by dust particles left behind by comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher, discovered in 1861. The shower runs annually in April and this year peaks on the night of the 22nd and morning of the 23rd. Meteors can produce bright dust trails that last for several seconds. Best viewing will be from a dark location after midnight. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Lyra, but can appear anywhere in the sky.

Tour the Big Bear Solar Observatory! Reservations are required, please call 909-866-5791 x210 or email norro@njit.edu or use the link below. Tours are FREE but donations are welcome.

Book with Online Form

Spend the evening gazing at the beautiful night sky! The annual Perseid Star Party hosted by Big Bear Astronomical Society welcomes stargazers with multiple telescopes for viewing planets, stars, and celestial phenomena. This event also coincides with the Perseid meteor shower so be on the lookout for shooting starts!

Stay tuned for 2025 event info.

The Big Bear Valley Astronomical Society meets on the 2nd Thursday of the month at 6 PM via Zoom. The public is welcome to join us, chime in or just listen.

Find Zoom link for the next upcoming meeting >>> HERE