Venus, the Moon, and Spica form celestial triangle

On the evening of September 13, observers can view a celestial alignment featuring Venus, a waxing crescent Moon, and the star Spica. The three objects form a triangle in the western sky shortly after sunset.

Venus will appear as a bright evening star, positioned approximately five degrees from the Moon, which is roughly 9% to 10% illuminated. Spica, a star located approximately 250 light-years away, will be visible to the upper right of the Moon. Observers may also have the opportunity to see Mercury if they have a clear, flat horizon, though it will remain very low to the horizon.

This pairing serves as a prelude to a closer encounter on the following day, when the Moon is expected to pass directly in front of Venus for observers in parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe.