The night sky is normally full of stars and the moon, which shines majestically, but from time to time, events occur in the sky that interrupt the tranquility to which we are accustomed. Some of them are meteor showers, lunar eclipses, planetary conjunctions, or comets.

These types of events are known as "Astronomical or Space Events." Some, such as meteor showers, occur every year on the same dates and in the same region of the sky, but others, such as planetary conjunctions or comets, are more unpredictable and do not occur very often.

That is why if you have the opportunity to observe any of these events and consider yourself a lover of astrophotography, you cannot miss them! Below, we will list the seven most critical astronomical events in 2025!

1. Approach of comet C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) (on January 13)

This comet was recently discovered by the ATLAS (Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System) team with the 0.5 m Schmidt telescope in Rio Hurtado, Chile. It will be observable throughout the appearance in the southern hemisphere.

As it reaches its perihelion (the closest point to the Sun) on January 13, 2025, it will become so bright that it could even be seen with the naked eye during sunset or sunrise.

However, predicting how bright it will be is very complicated because the brightness depends on many factors, which could make it a spectacular object or one that is barely visible. But for the moment, everything indicates that it will be incredible.

Its closest approach will begin at the end of December 2024, with its brightest moment in January 2025.

Visibility regions and times

The comet C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) will be visible in dark skies away from light pollution, especially in regions of South America, Africa, and Australia. Although specific times may vary, it's generally best to look for it in the early morning or just before dawn, when the sky is dark and the comet is high above the horizon.

Photographic equipment and tips

To observe it, you will need binoculars or a small telescope. To photograph it, use a telephoto camera y, a telescope equipped with an equatorial mount, and a motorized tracker to track the comet's movement. Use long exposure times and set the ISO to balance brightness.

Importance and frequency

This event is significant because comets provide us with information about the origins of the solar system. Comet C/2024 G3 (ATLAS) will pass very close to the Sun, so many astronomers believe it will not survive and will disintegrate. Still, if it manages to survive its approach to the Sun, it will become one of the brightest events of 2025, so we will be attentive to what happens with this comet.

2. Total Lunar Eclipse (March 14)

The Total Lunar Eclipse on March 14, 2025, is a fascinating astronomical event and an unmissable opportunity for astrophotography lovers. This phenomenon occurs when the Earth comes directly between the Sun and the full Moon, casting its shadow on the lunar surface.

During the totality phase, the Moon takes on a characteristic reddish hue, known as the "Blood Moo," caused by the scattering of sunlight into the Earth's atmosphere. This event is a favorite for photography because of the color contrasts and the opportunity to capture details of the lunar surface in a unique environment.

Visibility regions and times

The eclipse will be visible across much of the Southern Hemisphere, including regions of South America, Africa, and Australia. According to estimates, it will begin around 03:00 UTC and reach its entirety around 04:30 UTC, with an approximate duration of one hour.

Photography equipment and techniques

To observe it, you only need binoculars or a basic telescope. To photograph it, use a camera with a telephoto lens (300 mm or more), a tripod for stability, and manual adjustments to control exposure. Capture images at intervals to document eclipse phases.

Importance and frequency

These events occur approximately two to four times per year, depending on the alignment of the Earth, Moon, and Sun. They are also critical for studying the Earth-Moon interaction in the Earth's atmosphere. Don't miss it!

3. Partial Solar Eclipse (March 29)

The partial solar eclipse on March 29, 2025, will be a fascinating astronomical event to observe and photograph. This phenomenon occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, partially covering the solar disk.

Although it is not a total eclipse, it is an excellent opportunity to capture the interaction between these celestial bodies. For astrophotographers, the "bitten Sun" shapes that appear during the eclipse are unique and visually stunning.

Visibility regions and times

The eclipse will be visible in Asia, Europe, and North Africa. Specific hours vary by location; the eclipse will peak in the early afternoon in Europe. For local timing and coverage details, see specific visibility maps.

Photography equipment and techniques

It is imperative to use approved sunscreens to protect your eyes and photographic equipment. A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens (300mm or more) delivers excellent results for capturing images.

A stable tripod, low ISO settings, and manual focus are essential. Document the eclipse's evolution at regular intervals.

If you use solar filters to observe the eclipse directly with your eyes, remember to use a certified one. Although the filters reflect 99% of harmful radiation, such as UV rays, it is advisable not to continuously observe the sun for more than 30 seconds, as it can damage the retina.

Importance and frequency

Partial solar eclipses allow us to study the Sun and Moon from unique perspectives. Although they occur several times a year, their visibility depends on the region, making this event particularly special for those in favored areas. If you are in any place where the eclipse will be visible, don't miss it!

4. Lyrid meteor shower (April 22-23)

The Lyrid meteor shower, which occurs between April 16 and 25, 2025, will reach its maximum splendor on April 22 to 23 nights. This phenomenon occurs when the Earth passes through the remains of comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher.

This comet left particles suspended in a region that intersects the Earth's orbit. When the Earth passes through there, the particles burn up as they enter the Earth's atmosphere, creating flashes of light that we know as meteors or "shooting stars."

Lyrids are ideal for astrophotography because they rate 10-20 meteors per hour in optimal conditions, with bright meteors and occasionally persistent trails.

Visibility regions and times

The rain will be visible from both hemispheres, with a privileged view in dark places away from light pollution. The best time to observe will be after midnight, when the constellation of Lyra, the apparent origin of the meteors, is high in the sky.

Photographic equipment and tips

You don't need advanced equipment to enjoy the event but to capture it, use a camera with a wide-angle lens, a stable tripod, and extended exposure settings (10-20 seconds). Set a moderate ISO (800-1600) and focus to infinity.

Importance and frequency

The Lyrids, visible annually, are one of the oldest recorded rainfalls, with observations dating back 2,700 years. They are a window into the study of comets and their interactions with Earth. If you want to observe them in the best way, try to stay away from the lights of the cities. The less light pollution there is the greater the number of meteors you can see.

5. Venus and Jupiter conjunction (August 12)

This conjunction will be a celestial spectacle that you cannot miss. A planetary conjunction occurs when two or more planets visually come closer together in the night sky, often separated by less than a degree, creating a "double jewel" visible to the naked eye.

For astrophotography, the conjunction is an opportunity to capture the two brightest objects in the sky after the Sun and the Moon, combined in the same composition.

Visibility regions and times

The event will be visible worldwide as long as the sky is clear. The best time to observe will be shortly after sunset when both planets are low on the western horizon. Make sure to look for a spot with unobstructed views to the west.

Photographic equipment and tips

You don't need advanced equipment to enjoy this event, but a telephoto camera (100-300 mm) or a telescope with a wide-field eyepiece is ideal for capturing it. Use a tripod to stabilize the camera and take advantage of twilight to include landscapes in your shots.

Importance and frequency

Planetary conjunctions highlight the orbital alignment in our solar system and occur regularly, although each has its own characteristics in terms of proximity and visibility. This event will be especially bright and memorable in the southern hemisphere since it will be winter, the best season to make astronomical observations, thanks to the lack of moisture in the air and less presence of clouds.

6. Orionid Meteor Shower (October 20-21)

The Orionid meteor shower, which will peak between October 20 and 21, 2025, is a spectacular event associated with the remains of the famous Halley's Comet.

This phenomenon occurs when Earth crosses the trail of particles left behind by the comet, creating bright meteors that appear to radiate from the constellation Orion. Thanks to meteors' speed and luminosity, they are ideal for astrophotography, as they often leave lingering trails that can be photographed.

Visibility regions and times

The rain will be visible worldwide, with better views from rural areas away from light pollution. Although meteors can appear at any time of night, the best observation will be the hours before dawn, when the constellation Orion is highest in the sky.

Equipment for observation and photography

A dark and clear place is essential. To capture images, use a camera with a wide-angle lens, a tripod, and extended exposure settings (10-30 seconds). Shoot at regular intervals so you don't miss the action.

Astronomical importance and frequency

The Orionids, visible every October, connect us with Halley's comet and allow us to study its interaction with the Earth. This annual phenomenon offers an unforgettable and accessible spectacle for all night sky enthusiasts.

In addition, it reminds us that every time we observe a meteor shower, it is because our planet is passing through the same place where a comet previously passed.

Don't you find it fascinating?

7. Geminid Meteor Shower (December 13-14)

The Geminid meteor shower, which will peak between December 13 and 14, 2025, is one of the most anticipated astronomical events of the year. This phenomenon occurs when Earth passes through the remains of asteroid 3200 Phaethon, which generates bright meteors as they enter the atmosphere at high speed. With a maximum rate of up to 120 meteors per hour, the Geminids are one of the most intense and spectacular showers, ideal for astrophotography.

Visibility regions and times

This event will be visible around the world under clear skies. The best observation will be after midnight, when the constellation of Gemini, where the meteors seem to be coming from, is at its highest.

Photography equipment and techniques

You don't need advanced equipment to enjoy the Geminids. However, to photograph rain, use a camera with a wide-angle lens, a tripod, and extended exposure settings (10-30 seconds). Choose a dark place away from light pollution and adjust the ISO between 800 and 1600.

Importance and frequency

The Geminids, visible every December, stand out for their consistency and intensity. Studying them allows us to better understand asteroids and their interaction with Earth and offers an unforgettable spectacle.

Now that you know the most important events of 2025, you can prepare in advance to capture spectacular images!