Skywatcher’s Guide: Major Astronomy Events to Watch in 2026

Astronomy enthusiasts can look forward to a full calendar of celestial activity in 2026, according to a detailed outlook published by Universe Today. The year is expected to feature a wide range of observable events, including eclipses, lunar occultations, planetary alignments, meteor showers, ongoing solar activity, and potential comet appearances.

The forecast follows a period of heightened solar activity and continues several long-term astronomical cycles already underway. As the article notes, “the sky just keeps on turning into 2026,” with notable events visible from different parts of the world at various times throughout the year.

A Year Marked by Eclipses and Lunar Events

The 2026 calendar includes four eclipses—two solar and two lunar—which represents the minimum number possible in a calendar year. These events are spread across February, March, August, and late August.

A total lunar eclipse on March 3 will be visible from much of North America, the Pacific region, Australia, and parts of Asia, with the Moon remaining fully eclipsed for just over 56 minutes. Later in the year, a total solar eclipse on August 12 will trace a path across Iceland, Greenland, and northern Spain, making it one of the most anticipated sky events of the year.

In addition to eclipses, the Moon will play a central role in 2026’s observing opportunities. Throughout the year, it will pass in front of several planets and bright stars, creating a series of lunar occultations visible from different regions.

Ongoing Solar and Lunar Cycles

Solar activity remains elevated following the peak of Solar Cycle 25. While the Sun is expected to gradually move toward a quieter phase later in the decade, activity levels remain unpredictable. As Universe Today explains, “Sunspot activity is always a big unknown, as massive sunspots come and go.”

Observers are expected to continue tracking sunspots and space weather as part of this extended active period.

The Moon’s motion is also influenced by a longer-term cycle. According to the article, the Moon is shifting from a steeper orbit relative to the ecliptic to a shallower one, a change tied to “what’s known as lunar nodal precession,” an 18.6-year cycle. As a result, the Moon will continue to swing significantly north and south of the ecliptic during parts of the year.

Planetary Motion and Rare Moon Events

Planetary movements in 2026 largely follow predictable orbital patterns. Mercury reaches its greatest elongation six times during the year, while Venus transitions from conjunction into the evening sky before eventually returning to the morning sky toward year’s end. The outer planets reach opposition at different times, offering favorable viewing opportunities.

One notable highlight involves Jupiter’s moons, which are entering a new season of mutual eclipses and occultations as their orbital plane aligns edge-on from Earth’s perspective. During this period, the moons “will pass one in front of the other, eclipsing and occulting each other,” creating rare observational events for telescopic viewers.

The Moon will also occult several planets, including Venus, Mars, and Jupiter, and will pass over bright stars such as Regulus and Antares. Monthly close approaches to star clusters like the Pleiades and Praesepe will continue as well.

Meteor Showers and Comet Prospects

Meteor showers remain a consistent highlight in 2026, with major events such as the Perseids and Geminids peaking under relatively favorable Moon conditions. These showers occur as Earth crosses debris streams “laid down by their respective parent comets,” increasing the chances of good viewing conditions.

Comet activity, however, remains uncertain. As the article cautions, “Bright comets for the coming year are always the big wildcard.” While no exceptionally bright comets are guaranteed, several are expected to reach modest brightness levels. Among them, Comet C/2025 R3 PanSTARRS is predicted to make a brief appearance in the spring and may be visible with binoculars.

Overall, 2026 offers a steady mix of predictable celestial mechanics and unpredictable highlights. Some events will be easily visible to the naked eye, while others will require binoculars or telescopes, giving both casual skywatchers and dedicated observers plenty to look forward to throughout the year.