This weekend, stargazers are in for a treat with a stunning celestial event. On the evening of August 3, just after sunset, the waxing crescent moon will align closely with Antares, the vibrant red supergiant star in the constellation Scorpius, renowned for being the brightest star in the constellation.
To enjoy this spectacle, look towards the southwest sky after sunset on Sunday, where the crescent moon will be situated directly beneath Antares. The distance between the two will be approximately four degrees—this is comparable to the span of your pinky finger held at arm’s length. Observers are encouraged to find locations with minimal light pollution to enhance visibility of this beautiful pairing, as they will gradually descend toward the horizon over a couple of hours.
Antares, whose name translates to “rival of Mars,” displays a striking red-orange hue. On this occasion, it will appear red, but as it sits lower in the sky, atmospheric distortion may cause it to shine in a variety of colors, including yellow and white.
Additionally, viewers in some regions, including parts of Polynesia, New Zealand, South America, and Antarctica, will have the unique opportunity to witness the moon occulting Antares, temporarily obscuring the star from view.
This celestial display is a reminder of the moon’s monthly journey past stars like Antares, so if you miss this pairing, there will be future opportunities to catch it again.
This event serves not only as a fantastic occasion to appreciate the wonders of the universe but also highlights the importance of dark skies in astronomy. Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or a casual observer, this weekend’s cosmic encounter is sure to spark joy and wonder in anyone who takes the time to look up at the night sky.