Don’t Miss Tonight’s Dazzling Moon and Spica Dance in Virgo—How to See the Best Sky Show of June 2025!
The waxing gibbous moon glows beside Spica in Virgo tonight—here’s when, where, and how to watch this rare cosmic pairing.
- Moon Phase: Waxing gibbous (82% illuminated)
- Closest Approach: Moon passes just 0.5° south of Spica at 11 A.M. EDT
- Best Viewing Time: 1 hour after sunset, high in the southern sky
- Featured Constellations: Virgo & Corvus
Skywatchers, grab your binoculars and telescopes: Tonight’s sky puts on a show that blends cosmic precision, ancient mythology, and pure celestial beauty. The waxing gibbous Moon will gleam alongside Spica, the brightest star in the constellation Virgo. This fleeting rendezvous lights up the evening—and you don’t want to miss it.
Spica, a brilliant blue-white beacon, anchors Virgo the Maiden and sits nearly on the ecliptic—making it a frequent companion of the Moon’s path. While tonight the Moon won’t occult (pass in front of) Spica, the two cosmic neighbors will hang just 6° apart by nightfall, forming a striking pair in the dusky southern sky.
Adding to the drama? The little-known constellation Corvus, the Crow, flaps its wings nearby—offering a visual treat for those with a keen eye or a small telescope. Scan for Algorab, Corvus’ striking double star, southwest of Spica. You’ll glimpse a vivid duo: a blue-white primary star glowing 3rd magnitude alongside an orangey companion, split just enough for their contrasting colors to pop.
Whether you’re in a bustling city or under dark country skies, this is the perfect night to look up. For more cosmic wonders, check out updates from Sky & Telescope or NASA’s official website.
Q&A: What Makes Tonight’s Moon-Spica Pairing Special?
Q: How close will the Moon and Spica appear?
A: At their closest, the Moon will be just 0.5° south of Spica (about the width of your pinky finger at arm’s length)—a rare treat for skywatchers!
Q: Is this event visible to the naked eye?
A: Yes! Both the Moon and Spica are easily seen without equipment, but binoculars or a telescope bring out even more detail, especially in nearby Corvus.
Q: Can I see more stars in Virgo or Corvus?
A: Absolutely. Use binoculars to hunt down Corvus’ diamond-shaped quadrilateral and its beautiful double star, Delta Corvi (Algorab), about 14.5° southwest of Spica.
How to Watch the Moon and Spica—Step-by-Step
- Find a clear southern horizon—parks and rooftops work best.
- Look up about one hour after sunset for the bright Moon; Spica will sparkle nearby.
- Spot the blue blaze of Spica just southeast of the Moon.
- Sweep your gaze to the lower right (southwest) for the quadrilateral of Corvus.
- Use binoculars or a small telescope to split Algorab’s colorful double stars.
Not sure about the timing? Sunrise is at 5:32 AM, sunset at 8:26 PM, with moonrise at 4:22 PM and moonset at 2:38 AM (times for 40° N, 90° W).
For even more stargazing tips and live sky events, explore Space.com and keep an eye on NASA’s latest skywatching guides.
Don’t miss the celestial dance unfolding overhead—grab your binoculars and share this out-of-this-world view with friends and family tonight!
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Tonight’s Skywatching Checklist:
- ✔ Check weather and find a clear spot facing south
- ✔ Locate the waxing gibbous Moon and bright Spica
- ✔ Spot Corvus’ four-star diamond nearby
- ✔ Use bino/telescope for stunning double stars
- ✔ Snap photos and share the wonder!
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