The Sky Today on Friday, July 17: The Moon skims south of Venus
Astronomy enthusiasts can observe the Moon passing 2° south of Venus on July 17, with both celestial bodies visible near the constellation Leo. The article provides specific timing and viewing details for the waxing crescent Moon and the Coma Star Cluster.
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Public interest in astronomy promotes scientific literacy and engagement with natural phenomena.
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July 16: The Moon passes the Lion’s heart
The Moon passes 2° south of Venus at 1 P.M. EDT. By this evening, they are roughly 6° apart, with the Moon to Venus’ lower left in the sky tonight, instead of the lower right (as it appeared yesterday). The crescent Moon and Venus sink toward the horizon together at roughly the same altitude, side by side in the growing twilight.
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