December solstice 2027
The longest night of the year in the north — the most hours of darkness for stargazing.
When
What it is
Equinoxes and solstices mark the Earth’s position on its orbit: the Sun crosses the celestial equator, or reaches its farthest point north or south of it.
How to see it
Nothing special to watch, but it changes how long and how dark your nights are — check how many dark hours you get tonight on the map.
Check the clouds for that night
See also
Geminids meteor shower 2027
Peak night, up to 150 meteors an hour under a dark sky. A bright Moon (100%) washes out faint meteors; only the brightest will show.
Ursids meteor shower 2027
Peak night, up to 10 meteors an hour under a dark sky. The Moon (32%) gets in the way for part of the night — watch after it sets.
The Moon meets Mars, 29 December 2027
The Moon passes 0.5° from Mars — a pretty pair for the naked eye and the camera.
June solstice 2026
The longest day in the north — and the shortest, brightest nights.
September equinox 2026
Day and night are about equal; nights in the north are getting long and dark again.
December solstice 2026
The longest night of the year in the north — the most hours of darkness for stargazing.