Venus and Moon Align Tonight: A Celestial Show in the Sky

Tonight, Venus and the Moon will form a stunning triangle in the sky, visible from the western U.S. With Venus at 37% illumination, this celestial alignment offers a unique viewing experience. Binoculars and telescopes can enhance the beauty of this rare sight.

Venus and Moon Align Tonight: A Celestial Show in the Sky
Tonight, sky gazers in the western U.S. are in for a treat as Venus and the Moon align in a breathtaking celestial display. This rare alignment, where Venus, the Moon, and Neptune form a perfect triangle, is a sight not to be missed. Venus, currently at 37% illumination, will be visible through a telescope, revealing a 37% lit disk that thins as the month progresses.

The alignment is best observed early in the evening, with Venus setting more than three hours after the Sun on February 1st. By the 28th, it will set about 2.5 hours after the Sun. At 8 p.m. local time midmonth, Venus will be 10° high in the western sky among the faint stars of Pisces the Fish.
Binoculars and telescopes can enhance the viewing experience, allowing observers to see Venus’s phase shrink to 15% while its disk grows from 32″ to 49″. Neptune, though faint at magnitude 7.8, will also be visible, forming a perfect triangle with Venus and the Moon. This alignment is a rare opportunity to witness the beauty of our celestial neighbors up close.

1. What time is best to observe the alignment?
   The alignment is best observed early in the evening, around 8 p.m. local time midmonth.
2. How can I enhance my viewing experience?
   Using binoculars or a telescope can enhance the beauty of this rare sight.

3. What is the current illumination of Venus?
   Venus is currently at 37% illumination.

4. How long will Venus be visible tonight?
   Venus will be visible for about 30 minutes or so before it sets.

5. What other celestial bodies are visible during this alignment?
   Neptune, though faint, will also be visible, forming a perfect triangle with Venus and the Moon.

Tonight’s alignment of Venus and the Moon offers a unique opportunity for sky gazers to witness a rare celestial event. With Venus at 37% illumination and Neptune forming a perfect triangle, this alignment is not to be missed. Whether you use binoculars or a telescope, this event promises to be a memorable experience for all who observe it.