Early risers will have the opportunity to witness a stunning celestial event in the coming days. On the mornings of July 13 and 14, 2023, a waning crescent moon will pass by the Pleiades star cluster, also known as the Seven Sisters or Messier 45 (M45). This delicate and beautiful open star cluster is one of the many gems of Taurus the Bull.
The Pleiades, shaped like a tiny dipper, are a true family of stars. They were born together and are still moving together through space as a family. Viewing the Pleiades through binoculars is a truly breathtaking experience, as the cluster reveals 30 to 70 stars that are not visible to the naked eye.
In addition to the Pleiades, early morning sky gazers will also be able to spot the bright orange star Aldebaran. Known as the fiery eye of Taurus the Bull, Aldebaran is one of the brightest stars in the sky. It is part of a V-shaped cluster of stars called the Hyades, which forms the Bull’s face. While Aldebaran appears among the Hyades, it is not actually a member of the star cluster. It is much closer to us in space than the other stars of the Hyades cluster.
To catch this celestial spectacle, observers should look towards the eastern horizon shortly after 2 a.m. local time. The moon and Taurus will be visible in the dark morning sky before the sun rises and starts to lighten the sky.
The Pleiades is sometimes referred to as the Seven Sisters, but many people can only see six stars with their naked eyes. However, some keen-eyed observers have reported seeing 11 stars, especially in dark skies. Binoculars are ideal for observing the Pleiades, as they reveal the cluster’s true beauty and the additional stars that spill out of a telescope’s field of view.
The moon near the Pleiades and Aldebaran is a popular event among stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts. It is worth the effort to wake up early on a summer morning to witness this stunning display of celestial beauty.
For those interested in exploring more observing events in the coming weeks, EarthSky’s night sky guide is a valuable resource. Additionally, EarthSky’s YouTube page offers videos of great night sky events for further enjoyment.
About the Author:
Marcy Curran, the author of this article, has been passionate about star gazing since her childhood. Her love for astronomy led her to become a co-founder of a local astronomical society and an active member of her astronomy club. Marcy has also taught astronomy at her local community college for over 20 years and contributes a monthly article to her local newspaper, focusing on the stars, planets, and objects visible in the night sky.
How can observers enhance their viewing experience of the Debaran celestial event?
Debaran, which is located at the eye of the constellation Taurus. Aldebaran is a giant star, approximately 65 light-years away from Earth, and it serves as a guidepost to finding the Pleiades cluster.
To witness this celestial event, early risers should look towards the east-northeastern sky about an hour before dawn. The waning crescent moon and the Pleiades will be visible together in the same field of view. Binoculars or a small telescope will enhance the viewing experience, allowing observers to see the intricate details of the star cluster.
If weather conditions are favorable, this event promises to be a truly magical sight. The delicate crescent moon, with its soft glow, will provide a stunning backdrop for the cluster of stars. The Pleiades, with their blue-white brilliance, will stand out amidst the darkness of the pre-dawn sky.
This upcoming celestial event offers a unique opportunity for sky gazers, whether they are experienced astronomers or simply enthusiasts. It presents a chance to witness the beauty and harmony of the cosmos and to feel a connection to the vastness of the universe.
So set your alarm clocks, grab your binoculars, and prepare to be amazed by the celestial spectacle that awaits. Don’t miss the chance to witness the waning crescent moon pass by the Pleiades star cluster in the early morning hours of July 13 and 14, 2023. It will be a sight to remember and cherish for years to come.
This article beautifully describes the magical event of the Moon’s encounter with the Pleiades, a spectacle that ignites wonder and inspires a sense of awe in the night sky.
This celestial rendezvous between the Moon and the Pleiades is a breathtaking sight that reminds us of the vast wonders of the universe. Don’t miss this captivating spectacle, as the Moon graciously dances alongside the gentle beauty of the Pleiades.