This June, the Sun marks its summer solstice, and stargazers can make the most of the short nights by exploring the Moon’s phases, faint constellations, and notable stars like Arcturus.
The Moon takes 29½ days to complete a cycle of phases, with each day rising in the east and setting in the west due to Earth’s rotation. However, its orbital motion causes it to shift eastward in relation to the stars around it.
On June 1st, Eastern North Americans can spot a fat lunar crescent about 1½° to the right of Regulus in the southwestern sky. Over time, the Moon appears to move closer to Regulus, passing by Mars on the evening of June 29th. In the twilight hours, Mercury may be visible just above the western horizon.
As the Sun sets, facing south will reveal Spica, the alpha star of Virgo’s constellation. Nearby, Corvus and Hydra can be seen as fainter stars in a misshapen box formation. Libra, representing scales, is another notable constellation in June’s evening skies. But its ancient origins are shrouded in mystery.
The Sky Tour podcast offers a 13-minute guided tour of celestial highlights, including fun facts and tidbits about the Moon’s phases, constellations, and stars. Tune in to explore what’s up in the starry sky this month.
Source: https://skyandtelescope.org/observing/astronomy-podcasts/june-podcast-a-month-of-moonwatching