As New Year’s Eve approaches, sky gazers around the world will be treated to a spectacular view. On December 31, 2025, a nearly full Moon will accompany the Pleiades star cluster, creating a captivating sight in the night sky. This event will be visible globally after dusk, providing a remarkable opportunity to observe these celestial bodies.
Pleiades and the Waxing Gibbous Moon
The Pleiades, also known as Messier 45, is located in the Taurus constellation. This star cluster is situated approximately 440 light-years from Earth, making it a focal point for both astronomers and casual stargazers. On New Year’s Eve, the Moon will be about 90% full and positioned less than a degree away from the Pleiades, offering an excellent reference point for locating these stars.
Historical Context
The light we observe from the Pleiades today left these stars around 1585, coinciding with the time when colonists were establishing their fort on Roanoke Island, near present-day Manteo in Dare County, North Carolina. This connection links the present moment with a significant historical event.
Viewing the Pleiades
No telescope is required to appreciate the beauty of the Pleiades. However, for those seeking a closer look, small telescopes or binoculars can reveal additional stars within the Taurus constellation beyond the main seven. Observing the Pleiades is an excellent way to connect with ancient cosmic stories.
Mythological Significance Across Cultures
The Pleiades have captured human imagination across various cultures for centuries. Here are a few notable myths:
- Kiowa and Lakota Legends: Seven girls were chased by giant bears and transformed into stars.
- Cheyenne Tale: Seven puppies became stars, illustrating themes of transformation.
- Iroquois Story: Seven boys danced so vigorously that they ascended to the sky.
- Ojibwe Perspective: Known as “Hole in the Sky,” representing a sacred link between Earth and the cosmos.
- Navajo Tradition: The Pleiades, called Dilyéhé, served as a guidepost for harvest time.
- Australian Aboriginal Lore: The Karatgurk, seven sisters who kept fire, represent survival and cultural teachings.
Names of the Stars
The stars within the Pleiades bear names derived from Greek mythological figures, specifically the seven daughters of Titan Atlas and Pleione. These include:
- Maia
- Elettra
- Taygete
- Alcyone
- Celaeno
- Asterope
- Merope
As you celebrate New Year’s Eve, take a moment to look up at the night sky. The combination of the nearly full Moon and the Pleiades star cluster not only signifies the start of a new year but also connects us with rich cultural histories and cosmic wonders.
