Our charts are largely set for the northern half of Earth. To see a exact view out of your location, attempt Stellarium Online.
See the moon close to Mercury
On the morning of January 19, 2023, search for Mercury not removed from a skinny waning crescent moon within the daybreak’s twilight. Mercury, the closest planet to the sun, is at all times close to the dawn or sundown, making it a problem to view.
Not removed from the moon and Mercury is the fiery crimson star Antares, which marks the guts of Scorpius the Scorpion.
By the way in which, Mercury will attain greatest elongation on January 30, 2023. Biggest elongation is when Mercury stretches as removed from the sun as it could actually on the dome of our sky and it’s the perfect time to view Mercury. This apparition is healthier for observers within the Southern Hemisphere. Right now of 12 months, the ecliptic, or path of the planets, moon and stars in our sky, is extra perpendicular to the horizon for these south of the equator.
Easy methods to spot the moon and Mercury
Given clear skies and an unobstructed horizon, likelihood is that you just’ll see each the moon and Mercury with the attention alone. They’re low on the horizon about 60 minutes earlier than dawn. Additionally keep in mind, the slender crescent moon and Mercury will rapidly fade away within the morning gentle.
Regardless of Mercury’s brilliance (+0.4 magnitude), Mercury nonetheless sits moderately near the horizon earlier than dawn and should cope with the glow of morning twilight. For those who can’t see Mercury with the unaided eye, attempt your luck with binoculars.
The waning crescent moon – 8% illuminated – is about two days earlier than new moon. Needless to say Mercury will likely be on the illuminated aspect of the crescent moon.
Additionally, search for a fantastic glow on the unlit portion of the crescent moon. It’s gentle mirrored from Earth and known as earthshine.
Backside line: Regardless of the place you reside worldwide, let the skinny crescent moon be your information to Mercury on the morning of January 19, 2023.
For more great observing events in the coming weeks, visit EarthSky’s night sky guide
