Did you know that April is Global Astronomy Month? 

Not only that, but next week, April 14-15^th to be exact, there is what they are calling an “M&M” night. 

What is an “M&M” night? 

Well, it is not about the candy.  It is actually when both Mars and the full Moon are out.  On the first night of the full moon Mars will be showing up with a brightness that matches the night’s most brilliant star. 

Those of us in North America will also get a bonus!  A total eclipse of the moon!

When is the last time you spent time looking up at the night sky in wonder?

It has been too long since I have spent time stargazing.  This is a good week to change that!

I think I’ll even make a date of it!  How about you?

[ctt tweet=”Stargazing is a simple and very effective way to find fresh romance.” coverup=”6aF3V”]

Stargazing is a simple and very effective way to find fresh romance.  Whether it is this week or at a later date, plan a time to look at the stars together.

Here are some practical tips as you plan a stargazing date:

Watch the weather and plan your stargazing date for a night when the sky will be clear.

Choose a location where you can position yourselves to be comfortable lying down.  This could be your deck or lawn or even a truck bed.  A blanket helps. 

Find as dark an area as you can to reduce “light pollution”. 

Be patient and let your eyes adjust.  The longer you look the more you will see. 

A stargazing date has some powerful elements of intimacy. 

First, it is an opportunity to be physically close as you lie together looking up at the sky.  Hold hands, or better yet hold each other.

Also, there is the opportunity to be emotionally close.  Pondering the vastness of space and the millions and billions of stars is awe inspiring.  As you wonder at the wide open sky, enjoy the opportunity to explore each other’s dreams and aspirations.  Let your hearts open anew to the possibilities in each other. 

Helpful resources:

Check out Sky & Telescope’s Sky at a Glance.  It provides simple sky maps and observing tips for the upcoming week.  You can also find up to date information on the latest celestial events. 

If you want to plan way ahead you can use this Astronomy Calendar of Celestial Events.  You can view celestial events by calendar year, from 2010 to 2020.  

If you have a smart phone be sure to grab one of these or similar star chart apps (for iPhone or Android).