Early risers on Tuesday, August 12, caught a rare cosmic show. Venus and Jupiter appeared side by side in the eastern sky. This event signals the beginning of a six-planet parade visible before sunrise.
Venus and Jupiter Shine Bright in Eastern Sky
About an hour before sunrise, Venus and Jupiter dazzled observers. The two brightest planets were less than one degree apart. By Wednesday, August 13, they began to slowly drift apart. Saturn was also visible, shining brightly in the southern sky. Mercury appeared low near the eastern horizon but grew higher each morning. According to NASA, Mercury will reach its highest point around August 19. It will remain visible until roughly August 26.
Upcoming Highlights in the Morning Sky
The planet parade continues to build in the coming days. On August 18, a thin crescent moon will appear near Venus and Jupiter. Mercury will be at its peak height on August 19. That evening, a crescent moon will curve alongside Venus, Jupiter, and Mercury. The moon will continue to shift positions near these planets through August 21.
Outer Planets Brighten as Venus Fades
Venus, though the brightest planet now, is slowly dimming. It is moving away from Earth on its orbit and becoming harder to see. Meanwhile, Saturn is getting brighter as it nears opposition on September 21. This will be an ideal time for telescope views of its rings. Jupiter will reach peak brightness on January 10, 2026. Observers with binoculars or telescopes can see its largest moons clearly.
Looking Ahead to Future Planet Parades
The next major planet parade is expected in October 2028. Five planets will be visible together before sunrise during that event. For now, the current parade offers a unique opportunity to watch several planets in one sky. Skywatchers are encouraged to look east before dawn to catch these celestial sights.
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