Catch the Breathtaking Crescent Moon and Blue Star Spica Tonight—A Celestial Show You Won’t Want to Miss!

The slender crescent moon will be near the bright star Spica at sunset on August 27. Look to the west right after the sun goes down. The moon will be about 18% illuminated and about 15 degrees above the horizon, while Spica will sit less than 6 degrees to its right, making for a beautiful sight.

To figure out angles in the sky, remember this: holding your middle three fingers at arm’s length covers roughly 5 degrees. If you’re in a spot with a clear view, you won’t want to miss this cosmic duo setting an hour and a half after sunset.

If you peer through a pair of binoculars or a small telescope, you’ll find some interesting lunar features. Craters line the terminator, which is where night meets day on the moon. You’ll also see Mare Crisium (Latin for the Sea of Crises) as a dark spot near the top, with Mare Fecunditatis (the Sea of Fertility) below it.

Spica is not just any star; it’s a binary system made up of two massive stars orbiting each other 11 million miles apart. Together, they shine with the brightness of over 12,100 suns but are still 250 light-years away.

Don’t rush to find the moon right after sunset. Wait until the sun is fully down to protect your eyes. In the days following August 27, the moon will move on to meet Antares before it reaches the first quarter phase on August 31.

Stargazing is becoming more popular. Many people are sharing their sightings on social media, using hashtags like #StarGazing and #MoonWatch to connect with others. In a recent survey, over 60% of respondents said they enjoy looking at the night sky, highlighting a growing interest in astronomy.

For those eager to explore the moon more, consider checking out some great deals on telescopes or smartphone apps that can guide you through stargazing. This makes it easier than ever to understand and enjoy the wonders of the night sky.

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