The night sky on Thursday, March 23, 2023, was lit by a bright star, so people around the world want to know – what planet was above the moon tonight?
The crescent moon sighting marks the start of the Islam festival, Ramadan. The alignment of the planet is also significant in spirituality and is believed to be impactful across different zodiac signs.
As Muslims around the world embrace themselves for the holy month ahead, here’s what we know about the spectacular view that you can witness in the sky tonight.
EXPLAINED: Spiritual meaning of Venus and Jupiter in March 2023 explained
What planet is above the moon tonight, Thursday, March 23, 2023?
The bright star shining above the crescent moon tonight is Venus.
The disk of the moon is illuminated by 6 per cent of sunlight, while the star right above it shines bright with a magnitude of -4.0, according to Space.com.
Apparently, the two celestial bodies will only be separated by a distance equal to two-thirds of the approximate width of your fist held at arm’s length. This is how the proximity between them makes for an amazing view of the sky.
Another phenomenon awaits the following evening on Friday, March 24, as the moon and the star interchange their positions. So, you will find Venus slightly towards the left below the moon, which is illuminated 12 per cent.
The celestial bodies will align again in a month
You have two nights to see the moon and Venus as they come close to each other – on Thursday and Friday evenings.
But, don’t worry if you miss it, as the moon and the star can be seen together again on April 23, 2023.
Meanwhile, those who got to witness the phenomenon in the night sky on Thursday evening are absolutely mesmerized.
One tweeted: “That’s the planet Venus hovering above the Crescent Moon this evening. Beautiful.”
“The moon is cool tonight almost forgot to mention this there’s a planet above it,” said another.
A third user said: “Go look at the moon and the planet above it. The view is stunning!”
Spiritual meaning of the crescent moon and the star above it
The crescent moon and the star hold significance in different cultures.
The natural phenomenon is used as a symbol of feminine power, cosmic unity, and balance. In Islam, not only does the crescent moon sighting represent culture and religious observance with the beginning of their festival, Ramadan, but also symbolizes rebirth and renewal.
The divine energy the moon embodies is supposed to remind us to be mindful and respectful of our thoughts.
Meanwhile, the star symbolizes direction and enlightenment for those seeking the path of wisdom and knowledge.
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