A Stunning Night Sky Encounter You Won’t Want to Miss
Every month offers something special for skywatchers, but December 3 brings one of the most enchanting sights of the year—a close approach between the Moon and the famous Pleiades star cluster, also known as the Seven Sisters. This event is both easy to see and filled with history, beauty, and a touch of cosmic magic. Whether you are a beginner skywatcher or someone who regularly follows astronomical events, this is a night worth stepping outside for.
On the evening of December 3, the Moon will glide close to the cluster, creating a picture-perfect view in the dark winter sky. You won’t need telescopes or fancy equipment; the Moon and the Pleiades are bright enough to be seen with the naked eye. All you need is a clear sky and a spot away from harsh city lights.
What Makes the Pleiades So Special?
The Pleiades star cluster has captured human imagination for thousands of years. Found in the constellation Taurus, the cluster is made up of young, hot blue stars that formed together around 100 million years ago. Across cultures, they are known as the Seven Sisters, Subaru, Krittika, and many other names.
What makes the Pleiades unique is how easy it is to identify. Even from light-polluted areas, you can usually spot a tight group of stars that resemble a tiny dipper. Through binoculars, the cluster turns into a glittering swarm of dozens of stars, wrapped in faint blue nebulosity.
When the Moon passes near them, the contrast of the bright lunar glow