Early risers this week have a spectacular celestial event to anticipate as Venus joins forces with the waning crescent moon and the star Spica in the morning sky. This striking trifecta will be visible low above the horizon, requiring a clear view toward the east-south-east to fully appreciate the spectacle.
Venus will serve as the most easily identifiable object in the grouping, shining with exceptional brilliance. Situated next to it is Spica, the brightest star within the constellation of Virgo, located approximately 250 light years from Earth. Completing the tableau is a tiny sliver of the waning moon, which on this morning will be just two days away from its new phase.
With only 4% of its Earth-facing disc illuminated, the moon presents a rare opportunity to observe earthshine. Observers may be able to see the faint outline of the unlit portion of the lunar surface, which is illuminated by sunlight reflected from Earth. A chart depicting the view from London at 0600 GMT on November 7 illustrates this alignment.
At that time, the sky will remain relatively dark, though the approaching sunrise will gradually wash out the fainter stars. While the event is highlighted for northern hemisphere viewers, the grouping will also be visible from the southern hemisphere, where Venus, the moon, and Spica will appear higher in the eastern sky before dawn.
Sources: The Guardian Science.