"Stunning Celestial Display: Christmas Star Shines as Shooting Stars Fall"

This week is ideal for stargazing in the northern hemisphere due to the solstice, which brings the longest nights of the year. However, the moon will be bright and visible throughout the week, making it harder to observe faint stars and constellations. On December 19, the moon reaches its First Quarter phase, becoming 50% lit. On December 21, the solstice occurs, marking the shortest day and longest night of the year. The moon will also meet Jupiter on December 21/22 and the Pleiades on December 23. The Ursid Meteor Shower will peak this week, but the moon's brightness may hinder visibility.