The much-anticipated “planet parade” is set to captivate skywatchers all week, reaching its most photogenic phase on Tuesday, August 19. This is when Mercury will become more prominent in the pre-dawn sky, coinciding with the moon transitioning into a slim crescent. During this week, four planets will be visible to the naked eye approximately an hour before sunrise. Additionally, Uranus and Neptune will also grace the sky, although both celestial bodies require a telescope for clear observation. Notably, Tuesday's view is expected to be one of the finest of the week, especially as the crescent moon approaches the bright light of Venus on Wednesday, August 20.
On Tuesday, August 19, and the following mornings, the crescent moon will be around 16%-lit or less, allowing for a remarkable phenomenon known as “Earthshine.” This faint glow is visible on the darker side of the moon and is caused by sunlight reflecting off Earth's ice caps, oceans, and clouds. The effect is stunningly visible even through a simple pair of binoculars. Interestingly, the light that creates Earthshine takes just 1.3 seconds to travel from Earth to the moon and back to your eyes. The term “Da Vinci glow” is often used to refer to this phenomenon, named after Leonardo da Vinci, who described it over 500 years ago. Moon enthusiasts often poetically refer to Earthshine as “the old moon in the new moon’s arms.”
The highlight of the “planet parade” is expected on Wednesday, August 20, when a 9%-lit crescent moon will appear closely aligned with Venus, with Mercury positioned below and Jupiter above. For those eager to catch the last glimpse of this week's spectacular display, Thursday, August 21, offers another opportunity to see a slender 4%-waning crescent moon below Jupiter and Venus, near Mercury and the Beehive Cluster of stars just above the horizon. Mark your calendars, as the next significant “planet parade” will occur in October 2028, when five planets will align before sunrise.
As Mercury gradually fades from the pre-dawn sky, it will leave Saturn, Jupiter, and Venus as the only naked-eye planets visible. Exciting skywatching highlights in September include the peak visibility of Saturn during its annual opposition on September 21, a total lunar eclipse on September 7 for observers in Asia, Africa, and western Australia, and a stunning conjunction of a waning crescent moon, Venus, and the bright star Regulus on September 19. Additionally, a partial solar eclipse will take place on September 21 for those located over the Pacific Ocean.
For more insights into the “planet parade”, check out Forbes’ article on “Planet Parade” myths debunked and expert tips on how to truly see it. Additionally, be sure to explore your ultimate guide to meteor showers and the Perseids for more stargazing adventures.
