For centuries, the magic of Thanksgiving has kept American families alive and together. It is one of the few holidays where we get to hang out with our favorite relatives. This year, however, Thanksgiving is taking an interstellar turn as the Hyades star cluster is preparing to light up our skies. Light your candles and call your favorite cousins as we take you through this magic.
Astronomers announce the glamour of a familiar star
2025 has been a rollercoaster of excitement for stargazers. This November alone, we have witnessed the super Beaver full moon and the Taurid meteor shower. According to astronomers, those were just starter packs for what November had in store for us.
Although this coming visitor is sort of familiar to most stargazers, astronomers have reported something new. This is the V-shaped constellation known as Taurus, and it is easily sighted close to Orion. However, what many may not know about is the cluster of stars behind this constellation.
This cluster is known as the Hyades Star Cluster. This cluster is so ancient in the field of astronomy that many refer to it as the benchmark of all stellar evolution. However, this November, Earth’s orbit around the solar system would shift, causing this group of stars to appear brighter and clearer than usual.
Stellar breakdown of the Hyades star cluster
The Hyades Star Cluster is an open cluster of stars in our Milky Way galaxy. It was among the first stellar discoveries alongside the Pleiades, Ursa Major, and Orion. The cluster is known to consist of roughly 100 spherical stars sharing the same chemical characteristics, orbit, and age.
The Hyades cluster is estimated to be about 635 million years old. It can be located about 153 light-years away from our sun and about 65 light-years away from Earth. This proximity has made it one of astronomy’s favorite stars to explore. The clusters are usually seen to shine bright behind the Taurus constellation, just like the beautiful Auroral warning across 10 states.
However, this November, astronomers are predicting the Hyades Star Cluster to appear much more bold by Thanksgiving. This results from a shift in Earth’s rotation around the Sun. They discovered this to create a perfect alignment by this year’s Thanksgiving. This would present the Hyades star cluster much sharper and brighter.
Astronomers report an aftermath double-glow this November
While we are caught up with Hyades Star Cluster Thanksgiving magic, astronomers have made a discovery. After Hyades brightens our night sky, the Pleiades will also rise to view. According to astrophysicists, this will form a spectacular double show, leaving many, especially stargazers, awed.
Why is this event spectacular beyond Thanksgiving
This year has been like any other for astronomers and stargazers. Never before have we had an opportunity to catch so many displays in such steady orders. Perhaps you are new to the party; Hyades stands as a chance for you and your loved ones.
While we would all stand amazed by this event, astronomers have seen it as a research opportunity. Although the Hyades star cluster has served this purpose since the 19th century, its latest proximity opens another window. Now, researchers are planning to refine their study of middle-aged stars, their measurements, and how they evolved.
The high visibility of Thanksgiving night stands as a rare opportunity for all of us. This is because the Hyades stars would be visible even with an amateur telescope. So while we prepare for the magic of Thanksgiving, we can also prepare to enjoy the view of an ancient part of our Milky Way galaxy, just like the highly anticipated extraordinary cosmic event across 50 states.