A Must-See Cosmic Event!

Early risers are in for a breathtaking experience on September 1, as planets Venus, Jupiter, and Mercury unite in a stunning celestial lineup just before dawn.

Where to Look?

To catch this cosmic spectacle, direct your gaze to the eastern horizon in the pre-dawn hours. You'll spot the enchanting Venus shining brightly within the stars of the Cancer constellation. Just above and to the right, about 20 degrees away, the brilliant Jupiter will be visible. As a helpful tip, remember that the width of your clenched fist held at arm's length roughly equals 10 degrees in the sky.

Don't Blink or You'll Miss Mercury!

Mercury will rise approximately an hour before sunrise, creating a near-perfect diagonal alignment with Jupiter and Venus along the ecliptic—the path shared by all eight planets of our solar system. However, Mercury will quickly fade into the brightness of the morning sun, making an unobstructed view crucial to witnessing this rare sight.

Enhance Your Viewing Experience!

This planetary trio is a mesmerizing sight to behold with the naked eye, but those with a telescope of 6 inches or more will be rewarded with closer views of Jupiter’s four large Galilean moons and the fascinating phases of both Venus and Mercury. Just remember: never aim your telescope or binoculars towards the rising sun, especially with Mercury so low on the horizon, as it can severely damage your eyesight.

Ready to Stargaze?

If you're excited to see these planets for yourself, don’t forget to explore our comprehensive guides on the best telescopes and binoculars perfect for post-sunset and pre-dawn sky watching. And for the photographers eager to capture this cosmic harmony, check out our curated lists of top cameras and lenses ideal for astrophotography.