A Celestial Spectacle Awaits!

Get ready for an extraordinary sight as five planets — Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune — dazzle across the pre-dawn sky this week in a breathtaking 'planet parade.' This dazzling display is nearing its grand finale, with a crescent moon making a special appearance too!

When and Where to Watch!

The planet parade, a once-in-a-lifetime event not to be repeated until October 2028, is best viewed about an hour before sunrise over an unobstructed eastern horizon. Venus flickers low in the east, while Jupiter shines prominently in the east-southeast and Saturn glows in the west-southwest.

Moon's Close Encounter!

From September 15 to September 17, the sliver of a crescent moon will drift past Jupiter and the twin stars Castor and Pollux, providing an ideal chance to catch the enchanting 'Earthshine' illuminating the moon's dark side — a reflection of sunlight bouncing off our planet's icy caps and clouds.

Mark Your Calendars for September 19!

The highlight of the week arrives on September 19, when a slender 6%-lit waning crescent moon aligns perfectly with Venus and Regulus, the brightest star in Leo. This stunning trio will be so close that all three will fit within the view of binoculars! This celestial grouping won't be matched again until 2041.

Exploring the Outer Planets!

Meanwhile, Uranus can be spotted near the Pleiades star cluster high in the southern sky, while Neptune is positioned above Saturn. For the best views of these distant worlds, however, a telescope or large binoculars will be essential.

Don't Miss Saturn's Opposition!

Circle September 21 on your calendar because it marks Saturn’s annual opposition! The ringed giant will rise at sunset, shine brightest around midnight, and set at sunrise, offering the best visibility this year. Swing your telescope towards Saturn to catch a glimpse of its magnificent rings, though they will appear edge-on in 2025.

The Diminishing Glow of Venus!

As September progresses, Venus will rise closer to sunrise, fading in brilliance after reaching its peak earlier this year. Currently half as bright as its dazzling display in April, Venus will soon slip behind the sun's glare, disappearing from our view by January 6, 2026. Don’t miss the chance to catch it before it vanishes!

Prepare for a Cosmic Adventure!

This week is packed with astronomical excitement! Make sure to grab your binoculars, find a cozy spot with a clear view of the eastern sky, and prepare to be amazed by the wonders of our solar system.