Catch the Waxing Moon’s Dazzling Dance By Spica Tonight—And Discover a Hidden Double Star!
Don’t miss tonight’s spectacular sky show: The Moon and brilliant Spica align in Virgo, with Corvus’ double star waiting nearby for stargazers.
- Moon phase: Waxing gibbous (82% illuminated)
- Closest approach: Moon passed just 0.5° south of Spica this morning
- Star brightness: Spica shines at magnitude 1 (among the sky’s brightest stars)
- Observation window: Best seen facing south an hour after sunset
Look up tonight and prepare for an astronomical treat as the waxing gibbous Moon pairs up with Spica, the brilliant blue heart of the constellation Virgo. Their cosmic rendezvous comes right after the Moon’s closest approach—just 0.5° apart this morning—setting the stage for a captivating celestial spectacle visible as darkness falls.
By sunset, the Moon has drifted 6.3° southeast of Spica, giving sky watchers a magnificent pairing in the southern sky. Both are easy to spot with the naked eye or binoculars. The Moon, glowing 82% full, lights up the heavens, while Spica sparkles nearby, marking the base of Virgo the Maiden, one of the zodiac’s most graceful constellations.
For those seeking even more sky wonders, direct your gaze lower right of Spica to uncover one of the night’s best-kept secrets: Corvus the Crow. This four-star pattern, forming a stellar quadrilateral, often goes unnoticed but delivers a delightful surprise to those looking deeper.
Q: What makes tonight’s Moon and Spica pairing special?
The ultra-close approach—just half a degree apart—means the celestial bodies share the same field of view in binoculars. Although lunar occultations (when the Moon completely blocks Spica) can happen, you’ll see them snuggled close tonight, dazzling against the darkening sky.
How to Spot Corvus’ Double Star Gem
Grab a small telescope and swing 14.5° southwest of Spica, toward Delta Corvi (Algorab). This double star system impresses with a brilliant blue-white primary star alongside a distinctly orange companion. The striking color contrast and wide separation (24 arcseconds) make splitting them easy for beginners and experienced observers alike.
When and Where to Look
Set your sights south about an hour after sunset (sunset at 8:26 P.M. local time for most mid-northern latitudes). The waxing Moon will rise at 4:22 P.M., and set at 2:38 A.M. For the best views, find a spot away from city lights and let your eyes adjust to the dark.
What Else to Watch in the Night Sky?
In addition to tonight’s Moon-Spica drama, keep your eyes peeled for future lunar close encounters and bright planet pairings. For more on upcoming cosmic events, don’t miss updates from trusted sources like NASA and Sky & Telescope.
Why Is Spica So Important in Astronomy?
Spica, a blue giant and the 16th brightest star, sits close to the ecliptic—the path traced by the Sun, Moon, and planets. Its role as Virgo’s alpha star marks a celestial highway, making it a regular target for lunar passes and planetary alignments.
How Can You Make the Most of Tonight’s Event?
- Use binoculars for a wide-field view of the Moon and Spica together.
- Try a small telescope on Corvus’ Delta star for vivid color contrast.
- Capture the pairing with your smartphone or DSLR camera—use a tripod for stability.
- Invite friends or family for a spontaneous skywatching session.
Don’t miss this chance to witness celestial magic! Check the box below to make your stargazing unforgettable tonight:
Stargazing Checklist for Tonight:
- [ ] Check clear sky forecast and sunset time
- [ ] Find a dark, wide-open space facing south
- [ ] Bring binoculars and, if possible, a small telescope
- [ ] Locate the Moon and Spica soon after sunset
- [ ] Scan for Corvus and split Delta Corvi’s double star
- [ ] Capture photos or make a sketch for your diary
Stay curious, keep watching the skies, and return to NASA and Space.com for more cosmic updates!
References
