This week, skywatchers will have the opportunity to observe a beautiful conjunction as a slender crescent moon passes close to the planet Saturn. The event is visible shortly after dusk, providing a serene and accessible astronomical spectacle for casual observers.
What to Expect
The moon, just under four days old and showing only 15% illumination, will appear as a delicate sliver in the evening sky. Notably, this lunar phase provides a chance to spot Earthshine – the faint glow on the unlit portion of the moon caused by sunlight reflected from Earth. This subtle effect makes the crescent appear less starkly dark.
Saturn, in contrast, will appear as a steady, creamy point of light. Unlike twinkling stars, planets appear stable because of their greater apparent size.
Stars twinkle because they are so distant that their light travels as a single point through the turbulent atmosphere. Planets, though still far away, appear as tiny discs; atmospheric distortions average out across this disc, resulting in a steady glow.
The conjunction is readily visible from both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. For observers in London, the best viewing time is around 6:00 PM GMT, but the pairing will be apparent as soon as dusk begins.
This event is a reminder of the constant motion of celestial bodies and a simple way to appreciate the beauty of our solar system without specialized equipment.
The conjunction of the crescent moon and Saturn offers an accessible and visually rewarding experience for anyone looking to connect with the night sky.
