Jakarta –
The sky in January 2026 will be decorated with several astronomical events that will be interesting to witness. These celestial phenomena can be witnessed directly with the naked eye or with the help of a telescope.
So what astronomical phenomena will there be in January 2026?
According to detikEdu, the UK’s National Space Center has mapped several events in the sky that will occur early next year. Quoting the official page, the following is a list of celestial phenomena that are predicted to occur in January 2026.
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List of Astronomical Phenomena in January 2026
Table of Contents
1. Seasons Triangle Star
The astronomical phenomenon known as the Monsoon Triangle Star can be observed in January 2026. In this event, three bright stars appear to form a triangle-like pattern in the night sky, which in astronomy is called asterism.
The three stars consist of Sirius, Betelgeuse, and Procyon. Sirius, which is the brightest star, is visible in the southeastern direction of the sky. Meanwhile, the orange-red Betelgeuse is higher in the sky, and the third corner of the triangle is filled by Procyon which is located in the constellation Canis Major.
This phenomenon can be witnessed every day at around 20.00 local time. Interestingly, these three stars can be seen with the naked eye, including in areas with quite high levels of light pollution.
This is possible because Sirius, Betelgeuse and Procyon are among the 10 brightest stars in the night sky.
2. Full Moon
The first full moon in 2026 will occur on January 3. On the same day, Jupiter also appeared below the Moon.
This phenomenon can be observed starting at 18.00 local time and will be seen more clearly with the help of binoculars or a telescope.
January’s full moon is known as the Wolf Moon, a traditional term related to seasonal changes and agricultural cycles in America and Europe.
3. Quadrantids Meteor Shower
The Quadrantids meteor shower is expected to cross the sky on January 3-4 2026. This phenomenon has the potential to produce up to 80 meteors within a few hours of observation.
The peak of the meteor shower is predicted to occur on January 3 2026 at around 23.00 local time. Meteors will appear to shoot from a radiant point in the sky.
The name Quadrantids is taken from the constellation from which the meteor originates, namely Quadrans Muralis. The point of appearance is in an area of the sky bordered by three other constellations, namely The Plow, Draco and Hercules.
4. Crescent Moon Above Saturn
The sky will present the appearance of the Moon and Saturn which will appear close together on January 23 2026. The position of the crescent Moon as seen above Saturn.
This appearance can be seen at around 18.00 local time in the southwest or 21.00 local time.
Observations must be assisted with a telescope or binoculars to make them clearer. Don’t forget to observe Saturn!
Saturn can be observed with a telescope. Even though the rings are not clearly visible, in the next few years the planet’s characteristics can be observed more clearly.
These are the celestial phenomena in January 2026. Don’t miss witnessing their beauty, detikers!
(alk/alk)
