Take in the heavens from your hot tub on National Astronomy Day
May 10, 2019 – Tomorrow is National Astronomy Day. Back in 1973, Doug Berger, the current president of the Astronomical Association of Northern California, started the tradition of taking a day to look to the heavens and get educated to the wonders of the universe.
I often point out notable stargazing events throughout the year. One of the best things about owning a hot tub is getting a chance to immerse yourself in a toasty body of water, relax and get some much-needed escape, and turn your sights skyward.
The world is a big place! Yet, when you get a chance to look up, it puts into perspective how our little planet relates to the expansive universe. We think we’re a pretty big deal, but time in your hot tub soaking and taking in the star scape above brings that lofty theory crashing down compared to what’s out there.
There are so many things to enjoy while taking in a soak: from a full moon in its many incarnations, (blood moon, wolf moon, supermoon), the terrific show put on by Perseids, eclipses, finding the many stars that make up the Big & Little Dipper…the list goes on! During the latter half of this month, both Saturn & Jupiter should make a significant showing late in the evening and be easier to spot than in other times of the year.
We’re having some outstanding clear days over the weekend here in the Pacific Northwest. What better time to head out to the tub and take in the heavens? With spring in full swing and summer just around the corner, the night air is wonderful, and you’ll have the canvas of the terrific night sky fully on display for a truly wonderful soak and star show. How great is that!
