On May 9/10, 2016, Mercury, our Solar System's smallest planet, will pass between the Earth and the Sun, appearing as a small dot moving across the surface of the Sun.

This rare celestial event is the longest Mercury Transit in the 21st century and can only be viewed using specialized equipment.

The annual meteor shower associated with Halley's Comet is expected to peak in the early morning hours of May 5-7. Weather permitting, the shooting stars will be visible from both hemispheres. A new Moon on May 6 will create dark skies, which will make for optimal viewing conditions.