Venus Moon duo and Quadrantids meteors stun stargazers

Last updated: January 4, 2025 8:04 pm

3 Min Read

PA Media In the UK's Whitley Bay, a shining waxing crescent moon glows with Venus to the right — Within the UK’s Whitley Bay, a shining waxing crescent Moon glows with Venus to the appropriate

Stargazers across the globe had been handled to a surprising celestial scene on Friday as Venus appeared shining brightly above a crescent Moon.

The planet was seen to the bare eye from the UK to the US, Turkey and China.

Venus is commonly known as the Night Star or Morning Star as a result of, when it’s distinguished, it seems just like the brightest “star” within the sky.

Extra astronomical delights are anticipated this new 12 months, as January 2025 goes to be a great month to identify each Venus and Saturn. Ensure to have a look up into the sky on 18 January, as these planets can be seem simply 2.2° aside.

Reuters A crescent moon and the planet Venus straddle a cross on top of Quebec Baptist Church in Ellaville, Georgia — A crescent Moon and the planet Venus straddle a cross on high of Quebec Baptist Church in Ellaville, Georgia

In Turkey’s capital Ankara the Moon and Venus are seen collectively alongside the Kocatepe Mosque

Getty In Turkey's capital Ankara the moon and Venus are seen together alongside the Kocatepe Mosque — In Turkey’s capital Ankara the Moon and Venus are seen collectively alongside the Kocatepe Mosque

The waxing Moon and Venus above Edinburgh Citadel

PA Media The waxing Moon and Venus above Edinburgh Castle., which is illuminated with red light — The waxing Moon and Venus above Edinburgh Citadel

Stargazers may additionally be capable of spot capturing stars blazing throughout the skies, because the Quadrantid meteor shower continues.

This bathe, which is anticipated to peak on Saturday, has been seen since 26 December and can proceed till 12 January.

Dr Robert Massey, deputy director of the Royal Astronomical Society within the UK, stated observers hoping to catch a glimpse of the celestial fireworks after sundown might want to get “as distant from mild air pollution as doable”.

“In case you have the time to look out and the climate is nice, then do have a look as a result of it is an ideal new 12 months deal with.”