On the evening of June 29, just after sunset, a beautiful sight awaits those looking up at the sky. The crescent moon will align closely with Mars and the bright star Regulus. This celestial trio will be visible about 20 degrees above the western horizon. As it gets darker, you’ll see Mars and Regulus to the upper left of the moon, creating a stunning display.
But don’t miss your chance to catch this alignment! The moon, Mars, and Regulus will all vanish below the horizon within just a few hours after sunset. So, make sure to look up soon after the sun goes down!
The following night, the scene will shift. On June 30, the moon will move to the lower right of Mars. It will appear to glide beneath the Red Planet, coming within just 1 degree of it before both sink below the horizon. If you have a telescope, this would be a great time to use it.
Interestingly, not everyone will see the same show. Viewers in parts of Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, and Clipperton Island will be treated to a rare event where the moon obscures Mars entirely. This is known as an “occultation.” It happens because the moon’s position can shift by about 2 degrees based on where you’re standing on Earth. Occultations are special moments for stargazers, making this alignment even more exciting.
According to NASA, there has been a surge in interest in stargazing lately. As people spend more time outdoors and look for night-sky wonders, tools like telescopes have become popular. If you’re considering investing in one, make sure to choose a model that suits your needs. For beginners, the Celestron NexStar 4SE is a fantastic choice, offering easy setup and reliable views.
As we look to the night sky, it’s a reminder of how connected we are to the universe. With new celestial events occurring regularly, the excitement for what’s next only grows. Will you be watching? If you capture any stunning images of the moon, Mars, and Regulus, feel free to share them!