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Waning crescent moon near Jupiter
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The gist
A waning crescent Moon passes near Jupiter and Mars on September 6-9, 2026. Skywatchers need binoculars or a telescope to see Jupiter's daytime occultation on September 8.
Background
In early September 2026, the waning crescent Moon will appear near the planets Mars and Jupiter in the pre-dawn sky. This is a regular celestial alignment, but the highlight is a daytime lunar occultation of Jupiter on September 8, visible across parts of North America and Asia. Because it occurs in daylight, Jupiter will be invisible to the naked eye, requiring optical aid.
How it unfolded
- Sep 6, 2026The waning crescent Moon appears near Mars in the eastern sky before sunrise.
- Sep 7, 2026The Moon lies between Mars and Jupiter.
- Sep 8, 2026The Moon is near Jupiter, and a daytime occultation of Jupiter occurs, visible in parts of North America and Asia.
- Sep 9, 2026The Moon is lined up with Jupiter and Mars.
Who’s saying what
- Observers
- Skywatchers note that the daytime occultation is challenging but rewarding, with binoculars or a telescope needed to spot Jupiter.
- Experts
- Astronomy sources highlight this as a 'warm-up' for a larger occultation event later in the month.