Overview
- A near‑full, waning gibbous moon will rise with Regulus appearing slightly above and ahead, creating an easy‑to‑spot pairing.
- The duo emerges in the eastern sky roughly 90 minutes before midnight, with guidance citing an optimal viewing time around 8:50 p.m. local and clearer views by midnight.
- Regulus, the brightest star in Leo, will show as a steady blue‑white point that remains visible despite the moon’s glare.
- Jupiter will sit high above the scene tonight and will reach annual opposition on Jan. 10, offering its brightest, closest view of 2026.
- Observers in parts of eastern Europe, Asia and Russia may see the moon briefly occult Regulus.