For this week, sky viewers can look forward to observing the Moon, Jupiter, Uranus, and even the Seven Stars.
September 4-10, 2023: The Night Sky This Week
Sept. 4: Moon To Align with Uranus, Jupiter, and the Seven Stars
After the rare appearance of the Blue Moon just last week, the Earth's natural satellite now glows a few hours after the sun sets, which comes earlier as the fall equinox nears.
If one faces towards the northeast right before midnight strikes, one may observe the waning gibbous moon, which is 68%-lit, around 5 degrees from Jupiter's right. Aside from this, the Seven Stars of Pleiades, which is also referred to as the Seven Sisters, can be observed.
Moreover, with binoculars, one can also observe Uranus, which will come across as a bluish dot, right under the Moon.
Sept. 5: The Seven Sisters and the Moon
On the evening of September 5, the Moon will be 57% lit and will be situated right under the Seven Sisters. While the eyes can feast on this sight, it will be better appreciated if one uses binoculars to catch it.
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Sept 6: Last Quarter Moon Phase
By this day, the Moon will be in its Last Quarter Moon phase, also referred to as the Third Quarter. As part of this phase, the Moon would have already finished three-fourths of its rotation around the Earth.
The satellite will rise after midnight and clear the way for 10 consecutive evenings of moonless and dark skies. By this time, the Moon will be illuminated by over 56%.
For those situated in the northern hemisphere, stargazing in the coming month will become even more chilling. This is something to look forward to. This month, specifically, is a popular period for yearly star parties to be conducted.
Sept. 9: Venus in a Winter Sky, a Crescent Moon
Just one hour before the sun rises, viewers can face the east and witness the waning Crescent Moon, which will be 26% illuminated, over the ultra-bright Venus. This will appear over a backdrop that comprises the famous winter stars, including Betelgeuse, Orion's Belt, Sirius, Procyon, Aldebaran, and Capella.
Tips for Stargazing
When it comes to stargazing, night vision is key. One can observe that after standing amidst the dark for just 20 minutes, one could see more clearly in the dark. This night vision gets even better after staying outside for just an hour. As such, this night vision is also easily lost, as just a single glance on the smartphone screen can ruin it.
Hence, for those who want to make use of light at night, the best thing to do is to have a red flashlight at hand. This flashlight will not affect one's night vision as much as typical light. It is also important to make sure that one's smartphone's brightness is turned down.
RELATED ARTICLE: Moon Plays Crucial Role in Life on Earth, Could Potentially Determine What Makes A Planet Habitable
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