Constellation Taurus shines bright in tonight’s sky — Here’s what makes the ‘Bull’ special

On February 23–24, the Moon will pass close to the Pleiades cluster in constellation Taurus, know science behind this constellation is. (Image: Canva)

• The Moon passes near the Pleiades in Taurus on Feb 23–24.
• Best viewing is after sunset in the west to southwest sky.
• Aldebaran and the Crab Nebula will also be visible in Taurus.

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The second last night sky event will take place tonight. The skywatchers are in for a gentle yet mesmerising treat as the Moon glides past one of the most beautiful star clusters in the night sky, the Pleiades.

But where exactly should you look? And how science see this constellation as? The answer lies in a constellation that has fascinated observers for thousands of years. This constellation is Taurus well known as the "Bull".

A Celestial Meeting in Taurus

On the night of February 23–24, the Moon will pass close to the Pleiades star cluster, also known as Messier 45 (M45). This sparkling group of young blue stars sits within the constellation "Taurus".

Taurus will be visible in the west to southwest sky after sunset. As darkness deepens, the Moon will appear to drift through this stellar region. It will create a striking visual contrast between bright moonlight and delicate starlight.

The Pleiades may look like a tiny dipper-shaped cluster of shimmering points. With binoculars, even more stars reveal themselves.

Where Will Constellation Taurus Be Visible?

Taurus is one of the zodiac constellations, meaning it lies along the path the Sun, Moon and planets travel across the sky. Because of this, it is widely visible across much of the world.

It will be seen in countries like, India, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Europe and large parts of Asia and North Africa. It will be visible from 23rd to 24th February.

In the Northern Hemisphere, Taurus appears prominently in the western to south-western sky after sunset. In the Southern Hemisphere, it can be seen lower in the north-western sky.

When Will It Be Seen Clearly?

For the clearest view, observers should look shortly after sunset when the sky turns properly dark. In India, best viewing time to see this constellation is from 7:00 PM to 10:30 PM IST. Look to the West to south-west night sky.

According to Eastern Standard Time (EST), the best viewing time to watch this is from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM.  The Moon will pass near the Pleiades during this period, making the constellation easier to locate.

Scientific Significance of Constellation Taurus

Taurus plays its own role in science other than astrology. It contains, a young open star cluster about 440 light-years away, known as Pleiades (M45).  This constellation has the Hyades cluster which is one of the nearest star clusters to Earth.

A bright red giant star known as Aldebaran will also be visible. The famous Crab Nebula which is the remnant of a supernova explosion recorded in 1054 AD will also be seen. Few constellations offer such a rich laboratory of cosmic evolution.

A Quiet Night of Cosmic History

As the Moon drifts past the Pleiades within Taurus, it is not merely a pretty sight. It is a reminder that the sky is alive with motion. Witness clusters forming, stars ageing and remnants of ancient explosions glowing. On February 23–24, look up, you will see so many night events happening at the same time.