Observation Brief
After the sun dips below the horizon on December 26, keep an eye on the southern sky. A waxing crescent moon, about 48% illuminated, will be visible near the giant planet Saturn as both objects nestle among the stars of the Pisces constellation. This gentle celestial pairing offers a simple, memorable sight for beginners and seasoned skywatchers alike.
When and Where to Look
As darkness settles, look toward the southern horizon. The moon and Saturn will appear roughly halfway up the southern sky in the hours following sunset. The pairing is easiest to spot in clear, low-light conditions away from city glare. Saturn’s pale, yellowish hue should be noticeable near the crescent moon, with fainter stars of Pisces surrounding the scene.
What You’ll See
The waxing crescent moon will display its familiar curved edge lit by sunlight from the west. Saturn, though not as bright as the Moon, will stand out as a steady point of light nearby. Together, they form a gentle guide to the Pisces backdrop, providing a tranquil snapshot of the early-evening sky.
Why This Alignment Is Special
Alignments like this—moon meets planet in a recognizable constellation—are a delightful reminder of the solar system’s geometry. Observing Saturn in the same field as the Moon helps observers appreciate the relative sizes and distances of celestial bodies, even from light-polluted skies. The event also marks a seasonal moment as evenings lengthen and the sky reveals more planetary glow after sunset.
Tips for a Clear View
- Find a dark, unobstructed patch of sky in the southern direction shortly after sunset.
- Give your eyes a few minutes to adapt to the darkness for better contrast.
- Dress warmly and bring a simple binocular if you have one; Saturn may appear as a small dot with a hint of hue, while the Moon will be clearly crescent-shaped.
- Check local stargazing apps or astronomy websites for precise timing and sky coordinates for your location.
Constellation Context: Pisces
Pisces, the constellation of the Fish, provides a gentle backdrop for this scene. The Moon and Saturn’s proximity alongside Pisces’ starry field makes for a pleasing evening portrait in the sky, especially as you learn the shapes and names of surrounding stars.
What to Record
If you’re keeping a skywatching journal, note the date, time, and your approximate location when you spotted the Moon near Saturn. A quick sketch or a photo with a long exposure can capture the pair and the faint Pisces stars for future reference.
