Isaac Asimov once noted that Mercury is rarely visible when it’s truly dark due to its proximity to the sun. However, with a little patience and knowledge, viewers can spot this elusive planet.
In pre-Christian times, Mercury was known by two names: Mercurius and Apollo, as it would appear on one side of the sun and then the other. It wasn’t until Pythagoras recognized their connection in the 5th century B.C. that astronomers understood the true nature of the celestial body.
For those who want to witness Mercury’s appearance, set your alarm for 45 minutes before sunrise on Tuesday morning (August 19), when it reaches its greatest western elongation. Look low toward the east-northeast horizon, and first spot brilliant Venus. A bright, yellowish point of light about one and a half fist-widths lower left of Venus will be Mercury.
On Thursday morning (August 21), an additional celestial object can guide viewers to Mercury: the moon. The lunar crescent will appear as a slender sliver, with Mercury shining at magnitude -0.3. Binoculars can aid in spotting Mercury, but it should also be visible with the naked eye.
This view of Mercury is available until August 28, when it will double in brightness and become even more prominent in the night sky. For those interested in exploring the surrounding celestial bodies, try looking for M44, a star field known as the Beehive, located about two degrees below the moon’s position.
Source: https://www.space.com/stargazing/see-mercury-moon-beehive-cluster-august-2025