Can you spot a bright star near the crescent Moon tonight? That’s likely either Venus or Jupiter, depending on when you look up this week.
This May, Venus and Jupiter are the stars of the night sky. You can find them in the west after sunset, with Venus closer to the horizon and Jupiter higher up. Each night, they’ll appear to move closer together, culminating in a lovely show on June 9, 2026, when they have their closest meeting, known as a conjunction.
If you’re looking up during the week of May 18, 2026, you’ll see the crescent Moon along with both planets. This trio will create a stunning view that’s easy to catch with the naked eye in the early evening. Just after sunset, Venus and Jupiter are the only bright spots in the sky, accompanied by the delicate crescent Moon.
The Moon moves eastward each night, unlike the planets that stay relatively fixed. This week, it will travel near Venus and then Jupiter, giving you a chance to see them all together.
Here’s what to watch for this week:
May 18: The Moon will be just to the right of Venus after sunset. Look for a clear view of the western horizon to catch both the Moon and Venus in one glance.
May 19: Venus remains low, while the crescent Moon moves higher and to the left. By imagining a line from Venus to the Moon and extending it upward, you’ll find Jupiter shining brightly.
May 20: The Moon is now above and to the left of Jupiter, forming a line with the twin stars of Gemini, Castor and Pollux, which are also visible.
May 21: The Moon continues to rise, moving further left of Jupiter.
As the Moon waxes, it will reach its full phase on May 31, marking the second full Moon of the month. This is sometimes referred to as a “blue Moon.”
Observing these celestial events can enhance your appreciation of the night sky. Many amateur astronomers and skywatchers share photos on social media, creating a sense of community around these moments. According to a recent survey by the American Astronomical Society, about 70% of people feel more connected to nature when they watch celestial events, highlighting the importance of such experiences.
So, if you’re outside this week, don’t forget to look up. It’s a beautiful reminder of the wonders of our universe.
