Venus and crescent Moon stun stargazers

In Whitley Bay, UK, a bright crescent moon shines with Venus to the right

PA Media In the UK's Whitley Bay, a bright crescent moon shines with Venus to the right — In Whitley Bay, UK, a bright crescent moon shines with Venus to the right

Stargazers around the world were treated to a stunning celestial scene on Friday when Venus appeared shining brightly above a crescent Moon.

The planet was visible to the naked eye in cities around the world, from the United Kingdom to the United States, Türkiye and China.

Venus is often called the Evening Star or Morning Star because, when prominent, it appears to be the brightest “star” in the sky.

More astronomical delights are expected this new year, as January 2025 will be a good month to spot both Venus and Saturn. Be sure to look up at the sky on January 18, as those planets will appear just 2.2° away.

A crescent moon and the planet Venus straddle a cross atop the Quebec Baptist Church in Ellaville, Georgia.

Reuters A crescent moon and the planet Venus straddle a cross atop the Quebec Baptist Church in Ellaville, Georgia. — A crescent moon and the planet Venus straddle a cross atop the Quebec Baptist Church in Ellaville, Georgia.

In Ankara, the capital of Türkiye, the Moon and Venus are seen together next to the Kocatepe Mosque.

Getty In Ankara, the capital of Türkiye, the moon and Venus are seen together next to the Kocatepe mosque. — In Ankara, the capital of Türkiye, the Moon and Venus are seen together next to the Kocatepe Mosque.

Stargazers can also spot shooting stars burning in the heavens, as the Quadrantid meteor shower continue.

This rain, which is expected to peak on Saturday, is visible from December 26 and will continue until January 12.

Dr. Robert Massey, deputy director of the Royal Astronomical Society of the United Kingdom, said observers hoping to catch a glimpse of celestial fireworks after sunset will need to get “as far away from light pollution as possible.”

“If you have time to look and the weather is nice, then take a look because it is a perfect gift for the New Year.”