Witness the Crescent Moon and Antares Dance in the Dawn Sky

On the morning of February 11, 2024, stargazers will have the opportunity to witness a captivating celestial event as the waning crescent moon rises near Antares, the brightest star in the constellation Scorpius. This striking astronomical alignment will be visible to observers in various locations, with a specific view provided for those in London.

The moon will appear as a thin crescent, approximately three days from new, with around 34% of its surface illuminated. At around 06:00 GMT, the moon will rise shortly after Antares, creating a beautiful contrast between the moon’s silver light and the deep red hue of the supergiant star, located about 550 light years away from Earth.

Optimal Viewing Conditions

To catch this remarkable sight, enthusiasts should start observing the sky around 05:30 GMT, as the dawn light will chase Antares from the sky well before 07:21 GMT, when the sun officially rises. It is crucial to find an unobstructed view of the south-south-east horizon, as both the moon and Antares will remain low in the sky, separated by just a few degrees.

Atmospheric conditions may affect visibility, particularly due to haze, which could diminish the brilliance of Antares. However, the crescent moon will be easily visible to the naked eye, serving as a guide to locate the star in the twilight.

As the moon and Antares share the morning sky, this event presents a unique opportunity for astronomy enthusiasts and casual observers alike. Whether through a telescope or with the naked eye, witnessing the rise of these celestial bodies can inspire awe and curiosity about the universe that surrounds us.