New Moon and Mercury Conjunction Illuminate July Skies

Astronomical events bring a unique opportunity for skywatchers to observe celestial phenomena in early July 2024.

The new moon occurs on July 5, coinciding with Earth's aphelion, its farthest point from the sun.
On July 7, the waxing crescent moon will closely pass Mercury, visible low on the western horizon after sunset.
Mercury reaches its greatest elongation on July 22, appearing brightest in the evening sky earlier in the month.
Observers in the Southern Hemisphere will have the best view of Mercury’s evening apparition this year.
Other visible planets include Venus, Saturn, Mars, and Jupiter, each rising at different times throughout the night.