In ancient times, one of mankind’s favorite pastimes was watching the sky, discovering comets and constellations. Although this habit has been lost in the big cities, it is still possible in the interior of São Paulo, where the clear skies reveal a spectacle of lights that enchants astronomers and the curious. But not all times of the year offer this experience, so you need to plan your trip well if you want to observe the stars.
Imagine planning a trip and investing your time in the dream of seeing the Milky Way, but arriving to find the sky overcast? We know that no one wants to experience such a frustration, so we’ve come up with a short guide to the best times for stargazing. Write it down and plan your astronomical getaway!
What are the best times of year for stargazing in the interior of São Paulo?
Avoid rainy months
Observing the night sky is an experience like no other, transporting us directly into the mysteries of the universe. But to experience it with quality, it’s important to know that the climate and atmospheric conditions vary throughout the year, directly influencing the visibility of the sky.
Summer and spring, for example, are usually wet seasons. Rain and clouds hinder observation, “hiding” the stars even in places with little light. So avoid making this kind of trip between October and February, as there’s a good chance you’ll only be able to see the clouds.
How about an astronomy trip in winter?
Fall and winter, on the other hand, are seasons with less humidity. The drier nights have clearer skies, which allow us to contemplate the immensity of the universe without interference. What’s more, the nights are longer in winter, which allows for more observation time.
In other words, if you want to see stars, planets and even the Milky Way, travel between April and September. And even then, check the weather forecast before you set off, as there is still a chance of a week or two of rain during this period.
