Skywatchers across the UK are in for a beautiful celestial treat this week as the moon makes a close approach to the ringed planet Saturn.
A Close Encounter in the Evening Sky
The main event occurs on 29 November at 19:08 GMT, when the moon will be positioned directly north of Saturn. The two will be separated by a mere 3.75 degrees in the sky. To put that in perspective, the moon itself has an angular diameter of just 0.5 degrees.
This conjunction offers a spectacular sight for the naked eye, easily visible from both hemispheres. While city dwellers will be able to see the pairing, the experience is profoundly enhanced away from urban light pollution.
The Silver and Gold of the Night
The visual contrast between the two celestial bodies is what makes this event so special. The moon will be in its waxing gibbous phase, nine days old, with approximately 66% of its visible surface illuminated. It will cast a brilliant, silvery glow.
Saturn, positioned just across the constellation border, will provide a steady, faintly yellow golden light from within the constellation of Aquarius. This beautiful juxtaposition of silver and gold is a prime target for photographers and stargazers alike.
How to Get the Best View
For observers in London looking south at 19.00 GMT on 29 November, the pair will be well-placed in the sky. While most telescopes will not be able to fit both objects in a single field of view, a standard pair of binoculars will frame the duo perfectly.
The moon will be situated within the constellation Pisces, making this a great opportunity to identify these faint celestial patterns with a brighter guidepost. This event is a wonderful reminder of the dynamic and ever-changing nature of our night sky.
