Stargazers across North America and mid-northern latitudes can use the moon as a celestial guide this week to locate two of the night sky’s most prominent features: the blue-white star Spica and the red supergiant Antares. According to data provided by Stellarium, the moon’s position relative to these stars offers an accessible entry point for amateur astronomy through late July 2026.
Tracking the Moon’s Path Near Spica and Antares
The lunar cycle provides a natural itinerary for observing major constellations. On July 20, the 46%-lit waxing crescent moon will appear positioned below Spica, the brightest star in the constellation Virgo. While Spica is a binary star system, it appears to the naked eye as a single, steady point of light. By July 24, the moon—now an 82%-lit waxing gibbous—will have traveled south to sit just a few degrees from Antares, the massive red supergiant located in the constellation Scorpius, as reported by Jamie Carter in Forbes.
Pro Tip: If you are using a backyard telescope, the period around July 21 is ideal for lunar observation. As the moon reaches its first quarter, the line between light and shadow—known as the terminator—reveals sharp details of craters and mountain ranges that are otherwise washed out during a full moon.
The Anatomy of Scorpius
Scorpius remains one of the few constellations that visually resembles its namesake. From mid-northern latitudes, the scorpion’s curved body and hooked tail are visible low on the southern horizon. Beyond the bright, yellow-hued Antares, observers can identify the stinger stars: Shaula, Acrab, and Dschubba. Because the constellation stays low in the southern sky for those in the northern hemisphere, finding a location with an unobstructed horizon is essential for viewing the full figure.
Future Trends: Meteor Showers and Solar Eclipses
The lunar phase serves as a countdown for upcoming astronomical events. As the moon waxes toward the full “Buck Moon” on July 29, the night sky will brighten, potentially impacting the visibility of the Delta Aquariid meteor shower, which peaks July 31–Aug. 1. However, the subsequent Perseid meteor shower, building toward its peak on Aug. 12–13, will coincide with a new moon, offering ideal conditions for viewing up to 50 shooting stars per hour.
A significant event follows on August 12, 2026, when a total solar eclipse will cross eastern Greenland, western Iceland, and northern Spain. According to expert reporting, the path of totality will last up to 2 minutes and 18 seconds, turning daylight into deep twilight. While North America will experience a partial eclipse, observers in cities like Boston and New York will see only 16% and 10% coverage, respectively. Solar eclipse glasses remain a mandatory safety requirement for anyone viewing the partial phases of this event.
Did you know? Antares is approximately 550 light-years from Earth. Its distinct red color is a result of its status as a red supergiant, a star in the late stages of its life cycle that has exhausted its core hydrogen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a telescope to see Spica or Antares?
No. Both Spica and Antares are bright enough to be seen clearly with the naked eye from most locations, provided there is minimal light pollution.
What is the best way to track the moon’s position?
The times and dates provided are optimized for mid-northern latitudes. For location-specific precision, astronomical tools such as Stellarium can provide real-time sky maps.
Is it safe to look at the sun during the August 12 eclipse?
Only during the brief period of totality is it safe to look at the sun without protection. At all other times, including the entire duration of the partial eclipse in North America, certified solar eclipse glasses are required to prevent permanent eye damage.
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