On cold winter mornings, it can be a challenge to get out of bed. However, on November 27th, early risers will be treated to a stunning celestial sight: a thin waning crescent moon will be positioned next to the bright star Spica. Spica, the 16th brightest star in the night sky, shines with a brilliant white light in the constellation of Virgo.
The moon will only have 14% of its surface illuminated, creating a beautiful contrast with the dazzling Spica. At this point, the moon will be nearly 26 days into its lunar cycle, just before disappearing into the sun’s glare and reemerging as a new moon.
In London, the optimal viewing time will be at 06:00 GMT on the 27th, looking towards the south-east. Morning civil twilight will begin an hour later, with the sun rising at 07:38 GMT. For those in Sydney, Australia, the best time to catch this celestial display will be around 04:00 AEDT on November 28th. The moon and Spica will be visible briefly above the eastern horizon before the daylight starts to wash them out of the sky.
This rare alignment of the waning crescent moon and Spica is a sight not to be missed for astronomy enthusiasts and early birds alike. So set your alarms, bundle up, and enjoy this celestial delight in the early hours of the morning.
