April (meteor) Showers…
Dear Members,
Spring has officially arrived, and with it comes clearer skies, warmer nights, and a renewed excitement for stargazing—as galaxy season officially starts! April is always a favorite month among astronomers—between planetary alignments, meteor showers, and the changing constellations overhead, there’s no shortage of celestial wonders to enjoy.
We kick things off early in the month with the Full Pink Moon rising on Saturday, April 12th. While the moon won’t actually appear pink, its name comes from the blooming of wild ground phlox—one of the first flowers of spring. It’s a beautiful sight, especially low on the horizon, so don’t forget to look up!
Also lighting up the skies: Jupiter and Venus are putting on a brilliant show in the evening. Keep looking up nightly—the Moon is especially photogenic throughout the month, with occultations, conjunctions, and close approaches happening almost daily. There’s something new to capture or observe each night, whether with a camera, a scope, or just your eyes.
We’ve got a jam-packed month of astronomy events and outreach opportunities:
- NEAF (North East Astronomy Forum & Space Expo) – Saturday & Sunday, April 5–6 at Rockland Community College, Suffern, NY
- NEAIC (North East Astro-Imaging Conference) – Monday & Tuesday, April 7–8 at the Crowne Plaza Convention Center, also in Suffern, NY
- Astronomy on Tap – Friday, April 11, 5PM–8PM
Great talks, great people, and yes—beer is on tap! Volunteers welcome—this is a fun and relaxed way to represent AOS and connect with the community. - AOS General Meeting – Sunday, April 13 at 1:15 PM, held as always at Hofstra University.
We’re excited to feature a Special Guest Speaker at 3:00 PM—you won’t want to miss it!
Reminder: Nominations for open AOS board positions will close at this meeting. Voting will take place in May, so if you’re interested in getting involved or nominating a fellow member, now is the time! - AOS Annual Astronomy and Space Day – Wednesday, April 16, 10AM–5PM at the Cradle of Aviation Museum, Garden City
One of our biggest outreach events of the year—volunteers needed to help educate and inspire the public! - Special Public Outreach at Jones Beach Energy and Nature Center – Friday, April 18, 7PM–9PM, located at West End 1 East Parking Lot
We need 6 volunteers with telescopes and 2 chaperones. This is a fantastic beachside outreach opportunity. - Lyrid Meteor Shower Peak – Monday & Tuesday, April 21–22
Keep your eyes on the skies—we’ll aim to organize an informal observing night if the weather cooperates.
A heartfelt thanks to everyone who came out to last month’s meeting and observing night. Your enthusiasm and energy continue to make this club something special. If you’ve been away for a bit, April is the perfect time to jump back in—there’s a lot going on and something for everyone.
Clear skies,
Jason Cousins
President, Amateur Observers Society of New York
