May 2026 Sunriver Scene - Flipbook - Page 13
Once in a blue moon: May sky views at the Sunriver Observatory
By Alex Yeager
May brings several exciting
events to look forward to in the
night sky. While true darkness
arrives a bit later each evening,
the milder more comfortable
temperatures make this a wonderful time for viewing the
night sky.
A new moon on Saturday,
May 16 will provide the darkest skies of the month, perfect
for observing deep-sky objects
rising in the eastern sky.
Uniquely, two full moons
occur Friday, May 1 and Sunday, May 31.
The second is known as a
“blue moon,” a term used when
two full moons occur within a
single month, an uncommon
event that gave rise to the phrase
“once in a blue moon.”
On Saturday, May 2, the
asteroid Vesta reaches its closest
point to Earth.
Despite its relatively small
size, it becomes visible t
hrough the observatory’s powerful telescopes.
Even more exciting, our collection includes meteorites that
originated from Vesta, offering
a rare opportunity to both
observe and physically connect
with this fascinating object.
The nights of Tuesday, May
5 and Wednesday, May 6 bring
the Eta Aquariid meteor shower.
These meteors are the remnants of Halley's Comet, left
behind as it travels through the
solar system.
As Earth passes through this
debris field, we’re treated to
streaks of light across the sky,
shooting stars that are quite
literally pieces of a comet.
If you’re hoping to see Halley’s Comet itself, you’ll need
PHOTO COURTESY KRIS KRISTOVICH / KLCC
The Milky Way galaxy, visible over Sisters and the Three Sisters mountains.
to be patient, because it won’t
return until 2061.
May is an incredible time to
explore distant galaxies at the
Sunriver Observatory.
From individual galaxies to
clusters containing dozens,
there is a wealth of deep-sky
viewing available.
While Jupiter begins to set in
the western sky, Venus climbs
higher each evening, becoming
a brilliant sight just after sunset.
Meanwhile, objects near the
center of our Milky Way, such
as globular star clusters are ris-
ing earlier in the east each night.
Altogether, May offers a beautiful blend of comfort, clarity
and cosmic wonder making
it an ideal time to visit the
Sunriver Observatory and experience the night sky.
Sunriver Nature Center &
Observatory is located at 57245
River Road, off Circle 3, on the
way to the airport and marina.
For information, volunteer
opportunities, current hours,
programs, or questions, visit
snco.org or call 541-593-4394.
General Contractor Lic. #158538
Custom Remodel & Restoration
Josh Sauter
Tam Sauter
541-977-7963
541-977-7964
northwindconstruction@yahoo.com
Author Event
Saturday May 9 at 5 PM
William Sullivan will give one of his
spectacular slide show presentations
titled New Hikes Around Portland.
Email sunriverbooks@sunriver
books.com to register for this free
event, space is limited.
Saturday June 6 at 5 PM
Craig Johnson presents, The Brothers
McKay, the latest in the New York
Times Bestselling Sheriff Longmire
series.
Pre-purchase a copy of The Brothers
McKay from Sunriver Books for a ticket.
Book Clubs
S
FO
O
R
2762 NW Crossing Dr. Bend, OR 97703
May. 4, 6pm (Zoom)
May. 11 , 4:30 (in person)
“The Queens of Crime”
by Marie Benedict
May 18, 6pm (Zoom)
May 25 4:30 (in person)
“Table for Two”
by Amor Towles
D ON SUN
SE
AR
541.408.0819 | Roger@TheGarnerGroup.com
FICTION
MYSTERY
VER
RI
Roger Morgan, Principal Broker
FOC
U
This home blends mountain charm with everyday comfort. Backing to private common area,
it offers a peaceful setting with a large deck overlooking the forest. Vaulted great room with
timber & stone accents, fireplace, hardwood flooring, two suites, being sold fully furnished.
#22 Whistler Ln | 4 bd | 3.5 ba | 2,066 sf | $995,000 | MLS#220216921
Email: sunriverbooks@sunriverbooks.com for details and
to recieve the zoom link
VER 20 YE
Sunriver Books & Music
The Village at Sunriver, Building 25
541.593.2525 | www.sunriverbooks.com
MAY 2026 SUNRIVER SCENE
Page 13
