The Moon and Mars Conjunction: A Celestial Event

Just four days after passing in front of the Pleiades star cluster, the moon will cross paths with Mars on Monday evening, January 13, 2025. Mars is currently shining as bright as it will get this year, making this a noteworthy event for skywatchers.

Opportunities to witness the moon occult a bright planet at night are rare. On average, a specific location on Earth can see this phenomenon occur once every 14 years. So, if you are lucky enough to live in the occultation zone and the weather is clear, this event is one not to be missed.

Mars No Match for the Moon

During the occultation, the moon will be just hours past full phase. Known as the “Wolf Moon,” this January full moon will officially turn full at 5:27 p.m. EST. At the same time, Mars will be opposite the sun, reaching its moment of “opposition” on January 15. Both objects will be close enough for the moon to temporarily hide Mars from view, giving observers in North America a unique spectacle.

Although Mars will shine brightly at magnitude -1.3, it will be nearly 40 thousand times dimmer than the moon. To see Mars vanish or reappear, a telescope or binoculars will be necessary. Guides on how to photograph the planets or the moon during this event can be helpful.

Before and after the occultation, Mars will be visible to the naked eye, appearing bright next to the full moon. Those unaware of the event may mistake Mars for a “bright orange-yellow light” in the sky, leading to inquiries and excitement.

A Gradual Fade-Out

Unlike a star, Mars appears as a small disk in telescopes, making the occultation a leisurely process. Disappearance and reappearance times will vary depending on the observer’s location, with some seeing Mars covered for up to a minute. The reappearance will also be gradual as the moon moves to the east against the background stars.

Grazing Circumstances

In the United States, the northern limit of visibility for this occultation will pass through Washington state, offering a partial occultation where Mars’ disk will skirt the edge of the moon. Spectacular views can be seen in locations like Port Angeles, Washington, where Mars will be partially covered for approximately 7 minutes.

Meanwhile, the southern limit of the occultation will pass through the Florida Keys.

Schedule of Events

For specific details on the disappearance and reappearance of Mars in 16 selected U.S. cities, refer to the table below:

For more information on occultation timings in over 600 locations, visit the International Occultation Timers Association website.

All Mars Oppositions Are Not Alike

Mars has oppositions every 2 years and 50 days, with the next one in 2042. The planet will be farther-than-average from Earth in 2025, with the greatest distance occurring when Mars is farthest from the sun.

Perihelic oppositions, where Mars is closest to Earth, occur every 15 or 17 years. The next one will be in September 2035. These events bring Mars exceptionally close to Earth, offering spectacular views.

With Mars’ unique orbital dynamics, each opposition provides a different viewing experience. Keep an eye on the skies for future opportunities to witness this fascinating celestial event.

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