What's Happening?
On September 24, stargazers will have the opportunity to witness a celestial event as the crescent moon appears alongside Mars at sunset. The moon, illuminated at 10%, will be visible above the western horizon, with Mars positioned slightly to its upper right. This event will occur in the constellation Virgo and will be visible for approximately one hour after sunset. Observers are advised to find a location with a clear view of the western horizon to catch this fleeting appearance. The phenomenon of Earthshine may also be visible, where sunlight reflected from Earth illuminates the moon's surface.
Why It's Important?
This celestial event offers a unique opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts and the general public to engage with the night sky. Such occurrences can inspire interest in astronomy and science, fostering educational opportunities and community engagement. The visibility of Earthshine adds an additional layer of interest, allowing observers to appreciate the interconnectedness of celestial bodies. Events like this can also promote awareness of astronomical phenomena and encourage the use of telescopes and other observational tools.
