THE WAXING CRESCENT MOON VISITS VENUS AND JUPITER | 18TH – 20TH MAY 2026
Stargazers and night sky enthusiasts are in for a treat over the next few evenings!
On the evenings of the 18th, 19th and 20th of May a beautiful Waxing Crescent Moon will appear close by to and in between the bright planets Venus and Jupiter. These special celestial meetings will make for an amazing sight by eye and also an excellent photographic opportunity.
CAN I SEE THIS BY EYE?
The Moon, Venus and Jupiter will be easily visible by eye when looking towards the Western horizon shortly after sunset.
WHAT WILL VENUS, JUPITER + THE MOON LOOK LIKE?
Venus and Jupiter will look like bright star-like points of light in the sky and will be the first points of light to appear in the sky after the sun has set.
The moon will appear as a beautiful thinly illuminated crescent, if you look carefully you may also be able to see some detail on the darker portion of the moon too! This is due to an effect known as "Earthshine".
WHAT IS EARTHSHINE?
"Earthshine" is a phenomenon that allows you to see detail on the darker portion of the Moon when the Moon is in its thin crescent phases.
When the Moon is in its thin crescent phases and still fairly close to the Sun in the sky, a portion of Sunlight shining onto the Earth is reflected off the Earth's surface and faintly illuminates the dark portion of the Moon.
ANY VIEWING TIPS?
Having a clear view of the Western horizon will help in viewing these amazing celestial spectacles.
If you have a pair of binoculars or a telescope this will allow you to get a closer view. This will allow you to see more detail on the surface of the Moon, the effect of Earthshine will be more prominent, and you may also be able to spot a few of the Moons of Jupiter too!
IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNING!
If you do use your binoculars or telescope to observe these special meetings, remember to exercise caution when viewing things nearby to the Sun.
Looking directly at the Sun with an optical aid and without the correct protective equipment can result in instant irreversible eye damage!
We recommend only using binoculars or a telescope once the Sun has completely set below the horizon.
WHAT ELSE IS IN THE NIGHT SKY THROUGHOUT MAY?
If you would like to know more about the rest of the celestial treats that can be seen in the skies throughout this May, please watch our Night Sky Guide video for May 2026. You can find our video on our Facebook, on our website, and on our YouTube channel.
SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCES AND PHOTOGRAPHS!
We always love hearing about your celestial adventures and seeing your photographs! If you head out to witness or capture photos of these special celestial events or any other sights in the night sky, please feel free to share your stories and photos in the comments below. 😊
WISHING YOU ALL STARRY SKIES!
These special celestial meetings between the Moon and planets will be an incredible sight to witness, and so if you have clear skies and are able to, we recommend heading out to enjoy these special celestial spectacles.
As always if you head out to enjoy the night sky any time in the near future, we wish you good luck and clear skies! 💖✨🌌