Alexander Lewis 
Mar 03, 2024
Get ready to dust off those telescopes and binoculars because March is gearing up to be a month of celestial excitement like never before.
March 03
Kicking off the astronomical extravaganza is the rare sight of Asteroid 3 Juno at Opposition on March 3. This massive asteroid, initially mistaken for a planet, offers a glimpse into the early days of our solar system's formation, presenting a must-see spectacle for sky-watchers equipped with telescopes or binoculars.
March 9-10
Next up, on March 9-10, prepare for the ultimate nerdy adventure with the Messier Marathon. Join fellow amateur astronomers in the quest to spot all 110 deep-sky objects in one night, starting at sundown and continuing till the Sun's brightness hinders further observation. With the upcoming new moon providing optimal viewing conditions, mark your calendars for this cosmic scavenger hunt weekend.
But the lunar drama doesn't end there! Brace yourself for the Super New Moon on March 10, when our lunar neighbour throws its first fit of the month, offering an ideal opportunity for deep-space skywatching and astrophotography under the cover of darkness.
March 20 Equinox
As if that's not enough, March 20 brings the March Equinox, ushering in a global day-night balance and officially marking the debut of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and autumn in the Southern Hemisphere.
March 22 Devil Comet
Prepare for an even more exciting spectacle on March 22 as the Devil Comet, Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks, makes its 71-year return, potentially gracing our night skies with its brilliance. Keep your sky charts and binoculars handy for the best chance to catch this icy visitor's celestial show.
March 24
And for those daring enough to spot the elusive Mercury, March 24 offers the perfect opportunity as the tiny planet reaches its greatest elongation east, providing a brief window for observation just before sunrise or after sunset.
But wait, there's more! On March 24-25, keep an eye out for the Penumbral Lunar Eclipse as the Moon passes through Earth's faint outer shadow, causing a subtle dimming in its brightness — an event often overlooked but worth witnessing for avid sky-watchers.
March 25
Finally, rounding off the month is the Worm Micromoon on March 25, gracing the night sky with its faint glow. Reflecting the emergence of earthworms in the Northern Hemisphere, this Micromoon promises to be a captivating sight to behold, marking the perfect conclusion to a month filled with celestial wonders.
