Get ready for a spectacular cosmic encounter tonight! On August 27, the slender crescent moon will be gracing the evening sky, making a stunning appearance alongside the brilliant blue star Spica.

As dusk settles, direct your gaze westward at sunset to witness this celestial duo. The moon, illuminated at just 18%, will be positioned a little over 15 degrees above the horizon. Spica, the standout star of the Virgo constellation, will be shining brightly just 6 degrees to the right of the moon—an alignment you won’t want to miss!

But you’ll need to act fast! Both the moon and Spica will sink below the horizon less than two hours after sunset. Be sure to find a spot with an unobstructed view of the western sky. Look for Mars, which will also be in the vicinity on the right side of this stellar pair.

For those unaware, Spica is more than just a pretty sight; it is actually a binary star system boasting two massive stars that orbit each other from a staggering 11 million miles apart. Together, they emit light that is brighter than over 12,100 suns! However, at a distance of 250 light-years, they can't outshine our nearby crescent moon.

If you’ve got binoculars or a small telescope, don’t forget to use them! They’ll reveal fascinating details of the moon’s surface, including prominent craters along the line where night meets day, known as the terminator. You can spot the dark oval of Mare Crisium (Sea of Crises) and the vast Mare Fecunditatis (Sea of Fertility) on the lunar landscape.

Just a note: Wait until the sun has fully dipped below the horizon before peering through your telescope or binoculars, as looking too early can harm your eyesight.

As the days progress, the moon will drift away from Spica, eventually passing by the striking red supergiant star Antares before reaching its first quarter phase on August 31.

For those eager to explore the wonders of the night sky further, be sure to check out our top picks for telescopes and binoculars. If you’re new to stargazing, our guide to the best smartphone apps for navigating the cosmos will help you make the most of your viewing experience in 2025!