NASA releases June 2026 sky‑watch guide with planetary alignments and lunar occultation

NASA issued its official guide for June 2026 sky‑watching, outlining several notable celestial events. The guide highlights a Venus‑Jupiter conjunction visible after sunset from June 1‑10, followed by Mercury joining the trio from June 11‑15, creating a brief “planetary parade” in the western evening sky. On June 17, a lunar occultation will cause the Moon to pass in front of Venus, an event observable in parts of the United States, Canada, Brazil and Venezuela, though observers outside the central path will still see a close approach. The guide also marks the June 21 solstice, signalling the start of astronomical summer in the northern hemisphere. NASA advises observers to use proper eye protection and to avoid pointing binoculars or telescopes at the Sun, warning of potential eye injury. These recommendations are part of the agency’s monthly “What’s Up” series aimed at encouraging public engagement with astronomy.