"Rare Planetary Alignment: Moon Joins Mercury, Venus, and Mars in Early Morning Sky on Jan. 9"

On January 9th, a thin crescent moon will be visible next to Mercury, Mars, and Venus in the early morning sky. Venus will be the most visible, followed by Mercury and then Mars, which may require binoculars to see. Observers should take precautions when using optical aids to avoid looking at the rising sun. This event coincides with Mercury reaching its highest point in the morning sky and greatest elongation, making it a great time to spot the elusive planet. Venus will remain a bright morning beacon until May 2024. If interested in observing or photographing the moon and planets, guides on telescopes, binoculars, and astrophotography are available.