2024 cosmic calendar: Space events to look out for

Quadrantid fireballs, distinguished by their greater luminous intensity compared to typical meteor streaks, exhibit prolonged displays of light. The Quadrantid meteor shower is scheduled to occur between December 28 and January 12, with its peak activity concentrated within a few hours on a specific date, featuring up to 120 meteors per hour. (Photo credits: Reuters)

The penumbra arises from a partial alignment of the sun, moon, and earth, with the earth partially blocking the sun's light to cast a shadow over a portion of the moon. This celestial event will be observable from Europe, Australia, Africa, East Asia, North America, South America, as well as the Pacific and Antarctica. (Photo credit: PTI)

April 8 marks a rare total solar eclipse, captivating North America as the moon briefly conceals the sun, revealing the elusive corona. The spectacle, spanning Mexico to Canada, offers a few minutes of darkness along a narrow path, with duration varying by location, up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds. (Photo credit: PTI)

The radiant Lyrid meteor shower, leaving luminous trails, peaks on a full moon night this year, potentially affecting visibility. Optimal viewing requires a dark spot with clear skies, especially for those in the Southern Hemisphere who may observe fewer meteors. (Photo credit: NYT)

The Eta Aquarids meteor shower is active from April 19 to May 28, with its peak expected around May 6. The shower, with a speed of up to 50 meteors per hour, will be most observable in the Southern Hemisphere, appearing at a low position in the sky. (Photo credits: Reuters)

The annual occurrence of the Perseid meteor shower results from Earth passing through the debris left behind by the Swift-Tuttle comet. With the potential to generate up to 60 shooting stars per hour, this year's shower aligns with a moonless sky, ensuring optimal visibility. (Photo credit: AFP)

A supermoon, when the moon is closest to Earth, appears larger and brighter. September's supermoon coincides with a partial eclipse visible from Europe, Asia, Africa, North and South America, Indian Ocean, Arctic, and Antarctica. (Photo credit: PTI)

The Pacific Ocean will witness the occurrence of the second solar eclipse of the year. In this annular eclipse, the new moon will partially obscure the sun, forming a striking ring of fire around the moon's edges. This type of eclipse happens approximately once or twice a year. (Photo credit: PTI)

In October, the second supermoon of 2024, the moon will be at its closest point. Supermoons make the moon appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than when it's farthest away. No specialised equipment would be required to observe the moon, but a clear night sky and an unobstructed view enhance the experience. (Photo credit: PTI)

Boasting an impressive hourly rate of 150 meteors, the Geminid meteor shower stands out as one of the finest celestial displays. Scheduled for activity from December 4 to December 20, with its peak expected around December 14 this year. (Photo credit: AP)