As the new year approaches, I like to take a moment to mark down the things I am looking forward to – whether that be a big trip, seeing an old friend or simply experiencing summer warmth again (in Chicago December, that last one feels particularly distant). My stocktaking includes the big astronomical events I will be watching next year, so I thought I would share some of what I am excited about for 2025 with you.

First off, I have high hopes that the coming year…