Waxing gibbous moon marks key astronomical event this week

In North America, the week of June 2-8, 2025, is significant for stargazers as summer approaches, bringing shorter nights and changes in visible celestial phenomena. On Monday, June 2, at 10:41 p.m. EDT, the moon attains its first quarter phase. At this time, the moon will appear as a half-lit disk in the southern evening sky, guiding observers to find other celestial bodies nearby. Mars can be located in the southwest, while the bright star Regulus shines in the constellation Leo between the moon and Mars. Later in the week, on Thursday, June 5, the 77%-lit waxing gibbous moon will move closer to Spica, the brightest star in the constellation Virgo. Although the moon and Spica may seem close to each other in the sky, they are actually 261 light-years apart. This event draws attention to Virgo, which is prominent in the southern sky after dark during this time. Observers can use the pattern of stars in the Big Dipper to navigate towards the star Arcturus in the constellation Boötes and then “spike to Spica.” On Friday, June 6, a rare conjunction will occur as giant Jupiter aligns with tiny Mercury low on the northwestern horizon shortly after sunset. Observers are advised that while it is possible to see both planets with the naked eye, binoculars may enhance the viewing experience because of their low placement in the sky. During this time, Jupiter will be on its way down, while Mercury will be on the rise. This brief visibility will end as Mercury begins to move behind the sun on June 24. Additionally, the month of June may yield noctilucent clouds, formed by ice crystals and meteor dust, creating visual displays in the twilight sky. With darkness limited during this month, the appearance of these clouds presents a unique opportunity to witness a fascinating phenomenon in the northern latitudes. As such, this week marks a key moment for celestial enthusiasts, fueled by the dynamic interactions between these astronomical objects.