Just before dawn tomorrow, an unusual sight will appear high above the eastern horizon. The Moon, Mars, and the bright star Aldebaran will play a starring role.
Unfortunately, most people will likely sleep through it.
Those who wake up early may find themselves lucky enough to observe one of July’s most impressive sky displays.
For a brief period, three familiar objects will appear extremely close to each other in the predawn sky. These objects will arrange themselves in a way that most people never get to see.
What exactly will create this spectacular sky display?
A fleeting secret in the morning dark
There have been plenty of reasons for amateur astronomers to look up at the sky lately.
Another great opportunity occurs before sunrise on July 11.
Three well-known objects in the sky will appear much closer than usual to one another. This event does not need special equipment.
Individuals willing to set their alarms earlier than usual will have the best opportunity to view it.
The display will be brief because increasing daylight along the eastern horizon will gradually cause it to fade from view.
The night sky, rediscovered
July has offered exceptional viewing conditions for stargazing.
Following the last-quarter Moon, darker skies have created one of the better stargazing periods of the year.
This was one of the reasons why NASA highlighted this astronomical event. The objects involved are all familiar to most amateur astronomers.
However, seeing these objects so close together in the sky is what makes the event special.
Many astronomical events require the use of expensive telescopes or other types of specialized equipment for successful viewing.
This event is not one of those cases; all you will need is an early alarm call, a bit of patience, and an unobstructed view of the horizon. That accessibility adds to the appeal of the alignment.
Anyone with a clear view of the eastern horizon can potentially view this event for themselves.
This is expected to be among the most visually stunning sights of July.
A sudden alignment in the east
A rare alignment of the thin crescent Moon, Mars, and the bright star Aldebaran will occur in the early morning sky before sunrise on July 11. The three objects will appear within a small triangular area above the eastern horizon.
Because of its bright red color, Mars should be relatively easy to identify.
Also nearby will be the bright star Aldebaran, which will appear to form a perfect, glowing point in the corner of this celestial triangle.
Completing this astronomical puzzle will be the thin crescent Moon alongside the other two objects.
Timing will be important for those hoping to view the alignment before sunrise because all three objects will appear low above the horizon.
What waits for those who rise early
Moments like this are very easy to overlook. They come and go very quietly and quickly.
Events involving the Moon are usually notable on their own.
The addition of a bright planet and a prominent star is special.
It makes this alignment particularly intriguing for astronomers. These arrangements don’t happen every morning.
That is one reason astronomers encourage people to take advantage of them.
They suggest doing so when conditions allow.
Weather and local horizon conditions can affect visibility. An area with an open eastern horizon will generally offer the best chance.
This helps to see the formation before dawn.
No telescope is needed for this display, nor is traveling anywhere special required to witness it.
All that is actually required is a clear, unobstructed view of the horizon toward the east shortly before sunrise. For those who make the effort, July 11 will offer a brief reminder.
Some of the most incredible sights in the sky appear while almost everyone else is sleeping.