The ‘extra-supermoon’ and other celestial events for motorhome stargazers.

Kristof on Nov 8, 2016

The supermoon is just around the corner! Check out our guide to upcoming celestial events and where to see them.

One of the best things about heading away with a campervan rental is the fact that you can so easily leave civilisation behind and stay in beautifully isolated spots while still enjoying all the home comforts you’re used to. Being able to head into the wilderness means that you get front row seats to some of the greatest shows on earth: meteor showers, supermoons and other spectacular celestial events. 

In fact, in a week’s time we’re set to experience one of the most visually arresting lunar events in decades. The closest full moon of the century to date will be rising in our skies on November 14th, appearing significantly bigger and brighter than usual. In fact, this is being called an “extra-supermoon”, the like of which won’t be seen again until 2034. For the best viewing conditions possible, it’s worth finding somewhere far away from the city lights. 

Experienced motorhome vacationers will know that there’s no better feeling than arriving at your very own piece of isolated paradise and being able to truly relax there without complicated setup or “roughing it”. And if you thought that this month’s “extra-supermoon” is the only reason for astronomic admirers to head away for a night or two, you’d be dead wrong. There are all kinds of heavenly displays on offer for those who are keen to jump in a motorhome rental, head for a remote spot and experience the incredible sights that grace our night skies. 

Geminids Meteor Shower - 13 December 2016

This is one of the most impressive meteor showers on the astronomical calendar, and can be seen right around the world. This year the Geminids will be a little less striking than usual as the moon is near full on the 13th but even so, stargazers are in for a real treat. To mitigate light pollution as much as possible, you’ll want to head to somewhere with clear black skies. An RV rental from Las Vegas can have you watching meteors rain down from the sky over the yawning chasm of the Grand Canyon - it’s hard to imagine a more fitting setting for this eye-catching display.

Eta Aquarid Meteor Shower - 5-6 May 2017

The Eta Aquarid meteor shower is particularly striking in the southern hemisphere from the 5th to the 6th of May. You’ll want to stay up late (or at least set your alarm for a very early start) as you’re likely to see the most meteors just before dawn. Booking a Christchurch motorhome rental in New Zealand will put you within reach of Tekapo, a town at the heart of the Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve. This is one of the best spots in the country for stargazing, and should ensure that your Eta Aquarid experience is nothing short of breathtaking. Just remember, May sees New Zealand beginning to get a little frosty, so make sure to bundle up and keep out that predawn chill.

Perseids Meteor Shower - 12-13 August 2017

With up to 80 meteors per hour at its peak, the Perseids is another major highlight for amateur astronomers and stargazers. There will be a bit of a moon which may obscure some of the fainter meteors but there should still be plenty of heavenly fireworks on display. If you’re in the United States, take a peek at these top national parks to watch the Perseid meteor shower. Even southern hemisphere motorhomers have the chance to see the Perseids, although less meteors will be visible than in the north. With a campervan rental from Melbourne, you can strike out for some of Australia’s most isolated areas to make up for the reduced number of meteors with a jet black sky.


Written By: Kristof Haines

It’s funny how motorhome memories stick with you. I can still recall a motorhome vacation my family took when I was five years old and how awesome I thought I was, tucked away in a loft bed above the cab. From revealing unique destinations to providing tips and tricks, it’s my mission to help others build great motorhome memories too.