Incredible Crescent Moon and Venus visible in the sky this weekend – how and when to spot

are to be treated to an incredible weekend of celestial displays as the incredible crescent moon and Venus will be visible in the sky.

The first chance to catch a glimpse of the will occur this evening, Friday February 28, however you will need to keep your eyes peeled to catch the phenomenon.

Eager eyed Brits should look west after sunset to see an exceptionally slim 1-1% crescent moon. To maximise your chances of catching this display, stargazers should have a pair of binoculars or even a telescope to hand, as getting that very first glimpse can be tricky.

You may also need a dose of patience as the celestial bodies will sink under the western horizon soon after sunset.

To increase your chances of catching a glimpse even further you must ensure the sky is dark enough by waiting for the sun to set below the horizon, and use a clear view to spot the faint crescent shape near the sunset point.

It will appear as a thin sliver of light, with the “horns” of the crescent pointed away from the sun

A crescent moon is a phase of the moon when less than half of its illuminated side is visible from Earth.

In the northern hemisphere, a new crescent moon appears as a backwards “C” shape whilst in the southern hemisphere, a new crescent moon appears as a regular “C” shape.

But don’t worry if you miss out on Friday as on Saturday the 6%-lit, waxing crescent moon will be more easily visible in the western sky after sunset. Meanwhile Venus will shine bright at a brilliant -4.8.

On Sunday, we will be treated to a brightening 12%-lit waxing crescent moon that will be visible in the west sky shortly after sunset.

The unlit side of the crescent moon will display its earthshine which is a faint glow that lights up the unlit side of a crescent moon because the sun’s light reflects off the Earth’s surface and back onto the Moon.

Meanwhile, Venus will be below the moon, shining at a brilliant -4.8.