The Pleiades and the Moon Conjunction

On the night of April 1, 2025, skywatchers were treated to a celestial spectacle as the Moon passed close to the Pleiades star cluster. While the occultation itself occurred in the middle of the night and we were already sleeping, we were fortunate to witness a beautiful conjunction of the Pleiades and the Moon.

The Conjunction

The Pleiades, also known as the Seven Sisters, is one of the most recognizable star clusters in the night sky. On this particular night, the Waxing Crescent Moon created a stunning visual pairing with the Pleiades, making for an unforgettable sight.

Our Observation Experience

We set up our TS-Optics PhotoLine 80mm telescope, a versatile and high-quality wide angle instrument perfect for both visual observation and astrophotography. The telescope's 80mm aperture and f/6 focal ratio provided us with clear, crisp views of the night sky. 

As we gazed through the telescope, the Pleiades appeared as a cluster of bright, twinkling stars next to  the Moon. The contrast between the bright lunar surface and the delicate star cluster was mesmerizing. We spent some time simply enjoying the view, marveling at the wonders of the universe.

Capturing the Moment

In addition to visual observation, we used the TS-Optics PhotoLine 80mm to capture a photograph of the conjunction. The resulting photograph beautifully captured the serene conjunction of the Moon and the Pleiades, a memory we will cherish for years to come.

Conjuction of the Pleiades and the moon.

Conclusion

Although we missed the occultation itself, the conjunction of the Pleiades and the Moon on April 1, 2025, was a breathtaking experience. Nights like these remind us of the beauty and wonder of the cosmos, inspiring us to continue exploring the night sky.