What's in the sky
Stargaze
Broken Bow Getaways is the perfect place, far from the city's light pollution, to see the stars and constellations. Here’s what you can look forward to seeing in the sky this month on your next escape to nature. Pssst, the Great American Eclipse
August 2023
Full Moon
On August 2nd, the full moon will grace the night sky, casting its gentle light over the landscape. Known as the Sturgeon Moon, this moon received its name from Native American tribes who associated it with the abundance of sturgeon fish during this time of year. Take a moment to appreciate the serene beauty of the moon as it illuminates the world around you.
Perseids Meteor Shower
Prepare for one of the most spectacular meteor showers of the year—the Perseids. From August 11th to 13th, the night sky will come alive with shooting stars as the Earth passes through the debris left behind by Comet Swift-Tuttle. Find a spot away from city lights, lie back, and enjoy the breathtaking display as the Perseids light up the heavens above.
New Moon
August 18th brings a new moon, offering a pristine canvas for stargazing enthusiasts. With the absence of moonlight, the sky becomes a playground for celestial exploration. Take this opportunity to seek out constellations, planets, and distant galaxies. Let the quiet beauty of the night sky captivate your imagination.
Neptune at Opposition
August 29th presents a unique opportunity to observe the distant planet Neptune. As it reaches opposition, Neptune will be at its closest approach to Earth, making it more visible and easily observable. Although challenging to spot without a telescope, the chance to witness this enigmatic ice giant is an experience worth pursuing.
September 2023
New Moon
On September 15th, the Moon will be located on the same side of the Earth as the Sun and will not be visible in the night sky. This phase occurs at 01:41 UTC. This is the best time of the month to observe faint objects such as galaxies and star clusters because there is no moonlight to interfere.
September Equinox.
The September equinox occurs at 06:43 UTC on September 23. The Sun will shine directly on the equator and there will be nearly equal amounts of day and night throughout the world. This is also the first day of fall (autumnal equinox) in the Northern Hemisphere and the first day of spring (vernal equinox) in the Southern Hemisphere.
Full Supermoon.
On September 29 the Moon will be located on the opposite side of the Earth as the Sun and its face will be will be fully illuminated. This phase occurs at 09:59 UTC. This full moon was known by early Native American tribes as the Corn Moon because the corn is harvested around this time of year. This moon is also known as the Harvest Moon. The Harvest Moon is the full moon that occurs closest to the September equinox each year. This is also the last of four supermoons for 2023. The Moon will be near its closest approach to the Earth and may look slightly larger and brighter than usual.
The 2024 Great North American Eclipse
Monday, April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will trace a narrow path across 13 states, offering a breathtaking opportunity to escape into nature to be present for this celestial event. Imagine the sky turning dark as the Moon obscures the Sun casting a surreal ambiance all around. It’s a moment of magic; an experience that will leave you in awe.
The eclipse’s path extends from Mexico and enters the United States through Texas, continuing its journey through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and finally reaching the northeastern tip of Maine—meaning our guests who escape to nature on Monday, April 8, 2024 to any of our cabins will have a chance to watch the solar eclipse: