Solstice sky highlights the moon and a pair of planets
The solstice will arrive at 14:58 UTC (9:58 a.m. CDT) on June 21, 2023. June’s solstice brings the primary day of summer season to the Northern Hemisphere and the primary day of winter to the Southern Hemisphere. As you wait via one of many longest days of the 12 months within the north for the sky to darken, you’ll first spot the crescent moon, adopted by the intense gentle of Venus. As soon as the sky is a bit darker, you’ll lastly spot the final member of this cosmic trio, reddish Mars.
You may additionally acknowledge some vivid stars close by. First look towards the northwestern horizon to identify Pollux and Castor in Gemini the Twins earlier than they set. Then, in the wrong way (greater and to the southeast), you possibly can spot Regulus in Leo the Lion.
Star chart for the June solstice
Our charts are principally set for the northern half of Earth. To see a exact view out of your location, attempt Stellarium Online. For those who’re within the Southern Hemisphere on the June solstice, this lineup will tilt the wrong way, from decrease left to higher proper. You’ll be able to nonetheless search for Castor and Pollux low close to the northwestern horizon, adopted by the moon, Venus, Mars and eventually Regulus.
For those who get an ideal picture of this solstice sky, ship it to us! Submit your photo to EarthSky Community Photos.
Backside line: On the June solstice, look west to identify a crescent moon close to sensible Venus and the dimmer, reddish Mars. This cosmic trio is a deal with in our solstice sky.
For extra movies of nice evening sky occasions, go to EarthSky’s YouTube page.
