On October 23, 2025, skywatchers around the world will be treated to a rare and beautiful alignment as the Moon, Mars, and Mercury come together in the western evening sky just after sunset.
This stunning event, known as a planetary conjunction, happens when celestial bodies appear close to each other from our viewpoint on Earth. Although they’re separated by millions of kilometers in space, they line up visually, creating a breathtaking view for anyone looking up at the right time.
A Cosmic Triangle in the Twilight Sky
As the Sun sets and the sky begins to darken, look toward the western horizon. You’ll notice a slim crescent Moon, glowing softly against the orange and purple hues of twilight. Just below or beside it, the tiny golden spark of Mercury will appear low in the sky, while the faint reddish Mars shines a little higher. Together, they form a small but elegant triangle of light — a moment of calm beauty in the evening sky.
This alignment will be visible to the naked eye, though binoculars or a small telescope can help you spot Mercury more clearly, especially if it’s close to the horizon. From most parts of the world, the best viewing time will be about 20 to 45 minutes after sunset, before the trio disappears below the horizon.
Best Time and How to Watch
To catch this event, you’ll need a clear western view — like an open field, rooftop, or seaside area with no tall buildings or trees blocking the horizon.
Best time: Shortly after sunset (around 6:00–6:45 PM local time)
Best direction: Low in the western sky
Tips: Use a stargazing app to locate Mercury and Mars near the Moon
The sight may only last half an hour, so timing and location are key. Mercury will set first, followed by the Moon and Mars, so don’t wait too long after sunset to start looking.
A Moment of Wonder
Events like this remind us how dynamic and ever-changing our sky truly is. Even though these planets and the Moon are worlds apart, from Earth they appear to dance together in perfect harmony for a brief moment — a cosmic coincidence worth witnessing.
If you’re a photographer, this is also a great opportunity to capture a stunning sunset shot with the Moon and planets in one frame. Try using a tripod, zoom lens, and a few seconds of exposure to highlight their delicate glow.
So mark your calendar and don’t miss October 23, 2025 when the Moon, Mars, and Mercury align to create one of the most graceful sights of the year.
Source: Verified astronomical event information from Planetary.org and In-The-Sky.org.