On Friday evening, the young crescent moon will align with brilliant Venus in the western sky, creating one of the month's most beautiful naked-eye sights, provided the weather cooperates.
Viewing Details
The chart shows the view looking west from London at 10pm BST. By that time, the sun will have set, but the sky will still be bright with summer twilight. Venus will shine as a brilliant white point low above the horizon, while the delicate crescent moon—just three days past new—will be nearby with just under 16% of its visible surface illuminated.
Observation Tips
The pair will be low, so buildings, trees, or hills can easily block the view. The scene will not last long as they set, so observers are encouraged to follow them as long as possible. As night gathers, the pair will become more beautiful against the darkening sky. There is also a chance that the un-illuminated side of the moon will become visible in the ghostly glow of reflected light from Earth.
Global Visibility
The pairing is also visible from the southern hemisphere. Again, look west as soon as the sun has set.
