Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — A rare and whimsical celestial event named the “Smiley Face Moon” is set to dazzle early morning sky this week, as three bright objects align to form what appears to be a smiley face on the night sky.
The planetary alignment, known in astronomy as a triple conjunction, will occur in the early hours of Friday, April 25, 2025. During this rare phenomenon Venus, Saturn, and a crescent moon will appear unusually close together in the night sky, forming a smiley face shape that is expected to be visible across much of the world.
In this cheerful alignment, Venus and Saturn will shine brightly as the “eyes,” while the slender crescent Moon will curve beneath them, mimicking a joyful smile.
There’s also a chance that Mercury may make an appearance just below the trio. However, due to its low position on the horizon, it may be difficult to spot without a very clear view.
According to LiveScience, the phenomenon will be visible across the globe, provided skies are clear and there’s an unobstructed view of the eastern horizon. While the best time to catch this cosmic smile is approximately one hour before sunrise on April 25, around 5.30 in the morning.
Scientists say no special equipment is required to enjoy the sight, as both planets and the Moon will be visible to the naked eye. However, using binoculars or a telescope may reveal additional details, particularly of the crescent Moon.
Read Also:
‘Pink Moon’ to Light Up the Skies on April 12, Here’s What You Need to Know!
The “Smile Face Moon” comes on the heels of another major astronomical event, the Lyrid meteor shower which peaked just days earlier on April 21–22. The Lyrids, one of the oldest known meteor showers, were expected to produce up to 15 meteors per hour under dark skies.
Together, the Lyrid meteors and the upcoming ‘Smiley Face Moon’ phenomenon offer skywatchers a spectacular week of celestial wonders in this mid April.
(Raidi/Agung)
