The April Full Moon occurs on Saturday in the night sky this week. It is called the Pink Moon, heralding in the pink blossoms of trees. Plus, it is called a Micro Moon (the opposite of a Super Moon), meaning it is farther away from Earth in its orbit, appearing smaller to the viewer. It will be the smallest full moon of the year.
Jupiter is hanging out in the constellation of Taurus, the Bull. Look high in the western sky around 10 PM, and you’ll catch this gas giant holding court.
Mars is in the constellation Gemini, near Castor and Pollux’s twin stars, forming a straight line. Its distinct red hue makes it easy to spot as it hovers above Jupiter toward the west.
Venus has made its grand transition to the morning sky after months as our “evening star.” You’ll find it rising about 90 minutes before sunrise, glowing brightly in the early dawn.
Just below the left of Venus is Mercury trying to make an appearance, but it’s still tough to spot in the glare of dawn. Keep an eye on it; it’ll become more visible soon.
Saturn is nearby Mercury but is also caught in the sun’s glare for now. As the months pass, it’ll slowly pull away from the horizon and become easier to see.
As the night goes on, Orion sets in the west, and the dramatic shape of Scorpius begins to rise in the east, standing tall on its tail—ushering in the summer sky.
Directly overhead, look for Leo the Lion lounging in the stars. Leo is one of those rare constellations that actually looks like its namesake. The head and mane form a shape like a backward question mark.
So, grab a blanket, maybe a telescope or binoculars, and enjoy the cosmic spectacle this week has to offer through April 18th. The night sky is putting on quite a show this week—let’s look at what’s up there!
