Rare Celestial Events to Dazzle Stargazers on September 19

TOKYO, Japan — Stargazers in the U.S. and parts of Europe can enjoy a stunning celestial display on September 19, 2025. A thin crescent moon will rise close to the planet Venus and the bright star Regulus in the predawn sky.

Two hours before dawn, observers should look for the crescent moon sitting just less than 1 degree below Venus, with Regulus shining just beyond. The width of a person’s little finger held at arm’s length represents about 1 degree in the night sky, helping amateurs frame their views.

This event will feature a phenomenon known as Earthshine. As the solar light illuminates the shadowed parts of the lunar surface, the vast basaltic plains called lunar maria can be seen. The Earthshine, also known as the Da Vinci glow, is only visible when the moon is in a position that allows sunlight to reflect from Earth.

For those in Europe, Canada, Greenland, and parts of Russia, Asia, and Africa, the moon will pass directly in front of Venus during an event called an occultation, temporarily blocking its light. This global event will begin at 6:34 a.m. ET (1034 GMT) and end at 10:26 a.m. ET (1426 GMT), allowing many to witness the remarkable spectacle.

Skywatchers around the globe are encouraged to seek out this unique experience and, if they capture images of the moon and Venus together, send them to Space.com for sharing in the community.