The first crescent moon after the new moon is called the “Shawwal Moon” because it occurs in the ... [+]
North America’s total solar eclipse may be over, but are you ready for two more sky highlights? On April 9 or April 10—depending on where you are—the new moon that caused totality on April 8 will emerge as a super-slim crescent alongside a rare bright comet in the sky during Monday’s totality.
For eclipse chasers, the first view of the crescent moon after a total solar eclipse is always a treat. However, its appearance will also signal the end of Ramadan 2024, the holy month of fasting for Muslims worldwide, and the beginning of Eid Al-Fitr (the “festival of breaking the fast”).
The exact dates of the month-long fast in the Islamic calendar are tied to the movements of the moon, with the first sighting of this week’s crescent moon the key moment. It’s called the “Shawwal Moon.”
Here’s when to see all this—for which you’ll need a low western horizon and a pair of binoculars:
When To See The ‘Shawwal Moon,’ Jupiter And The ‘Eclipse Comet’
The first crescent moon after the new moon is called the “Shawwal Moon” because it occurs in the tenth month of the Islamic calendar, which is based on the lunar phases. It first appears in the southwestern sky shortly after sunset in the evenings after the new moon. However, exactly when depends on your location—and how your eyesight is.
The “Shawwal Moon” could appear on either:
- Tuesday, April 9: A 2%-lit crescent moon will be below Jupiter, with comet 12P/Pons-Brooks in between.
- Wednesday, April 10: A 7%-lit crescent moon will be above Jupiter and comet 12P/Pons-Brooks.
Tuesday, April 9: 2% lit crescent below Jupiter, with comet 12P/Pons-Brooks between them.
When To See Jupiter And The ‘Eclipse Comet’
The following two nights are also excellent for planet and comet-spotting:
- Thursday, April 11: A 14%-lit crescent moon next to the Pleiades open cluster of stars, with Jupiter and 12P/Pons-Brooks far below.
- Friday, April 12: Jupiter and 12P/Pons-Brooks at their closest—making the comet easiest to find.
What To Know About The ‘Eclipse Comet’
Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks, a visitor to the inner solar system every 71 years, is visible right now in the western sky right after sunset. Sadly, that means it sinks below the horizon a few hours after sunset.
It was first discovered in 1812 by Jean Louis Pons in France and later confirmed in America in 1883 by William R. Brooks.
Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes.
