Mars Dazzles Next to Spica at Sunset on September 13
On September 13, 2023, skywatchers can witness a stunning celestial event as Mars glows close to the blue star Spica during sunset. To catch this vibrant duo, observers should look towards the western horizon where Mars will be positioned less than 10 degrees above the horizon, with Spica shining just below and to the left.
Finding these celestial bodies is straightforward, especially for those familiar with navigating the night sky. A helpful tip is to use your clenched fist held at arm’s length, which represents roughly 10 degrees of the sky. The span of three fingers held together measures about 5 degrees. As the sun sets, both Mars and Spica will be visible for just over an hour before they dip below the horizon.
Understanding Spica and Mars
Spica is not just a single star; it is part of a binary star system, comprised of two stars with a combined brightness that exceeds 12,000 times that of our sun. Located approximately 250 light-years from Earth, Spica stands out as the brightest star in the constellation Virgo. Despite its brilliance, Spica does not rank among the top ten brightest stars visible from the northern hemisphere.
On the other hand, Mars is renowned for its distinctive red hue, which results from iron minerals in its rocks and soil oxidizing, giving the planet a rusty appearance. As Mars approaches its solar conjunction in January 2026, it will gradually become less visible in the evening sky, ultimately re-emerging as a bright morning star weeks later.
Optimal Viewing Conditions
To maximize your chances of observing this celestial pairing, seek out an elevated location with an unobstructed view of the western horizon. The clear skies will enhance visibility, allowing you to appreciate the colors and brilliance of both Mars and Spica before they disappear from view.
For those interested in enhancing their stargazing experience, the Nikon Prostaff P3 8×42 binoculars are an excellent choice. They are designed with robust optics and a shockproof structure, making them ideal for both casual observers and serious astronomers. With these binoculars, focusing on constellations becomes a rewarding experience.
As the evening approaches, ensure you have a clear line of sight to enjoy this remarkable display of cosmic beauty. The sight of Mars and Spica together in the twilight sky offers a perfect opportunity for both seasoned astronomers and newcomers alike to engage with the wonders of our universe.
For anyone interested in sharing their own astrophotography, submissions can be sent to [email protected].
