In the expansive canvas of our celestial theater, a resplendent spectacle unfolds this week as the moon assumes its role as our faithful guide. Casting its radiant influence, it ventures within a mere 1.5° proximity to Spica, the dazzling luminary ensconced in the embrace of Virgo, the maiden of the zodiac.
Spica, a brilliant blue giant nestled within the Virgo constellation, distinguishes itself by radiating luminosity nearly 21,000 times more potent than our own sun’s radiant glow. As the full orb of the moon graces the nocturnal sky, its circular form boasting an angular diameter of approximately 0.5°, the lunar journey towards Spica narrows the gap to a mere six lunar widths.
Venture forth in your mind’s eye to London, gazing southeastward at 23:00 GMT on the forthcoming 28th of February, where a celestial ballet awaits your gaze. Rising majestically, the moon and Spica embark on their ethereal dance against the backdrop of the heavens. In the wake of the full moon’s zenith, the waning lunar spectacle shall commence, rendering its ascent into the firmament progressively later and unveiling decreasing portions of its once-illuminated countenance.
Behold on the eve of the 28th of February, an astounding 83% of the moon’s splendor remains visible to those who turn their eyes skyward, a diminishing crescent shimmering in contrast to the vast expanse of the cosmos. Embrace this ephemeral cosmic pas de deux between the steadfast moon and the radiant Spica, a celestial partnership that captivates the senses and evokes wonder in those who pause to witness the grandeur of our universe unfurling before them.
