The Venus Saturn conjunction April 2025 is a rare and beautiful phenomenon in the early sky. At April 24, 2025, around 45 minutes before sunrise, appear Venus, Saturn AND the crescent close together in the east. This unique conjunction is not only visually impressive, but also a perfect time to learn more about the movements of the planets.
In this guide, we explain where and when you can best observe this celestial spectacle, what to expect and how to capture it.
What is a conjunction?
A conjunction, also called a conjunction, occurs when celestial bodies are close together in the sky from our perspective. In reality, of course, they are millions of miles apart, but their orbital movements make them appear to meet for a moment. Conjunctions between planets occur regularly, but such a three-stage formation with Venus, Saturn AND the moon is rarer.
When and where to watch?
📍 Date: Thursday, April 24, 2025
⏰ Time: About 45 minutes before sunrise
📌 Viewing direction: Eastern horizon
🌙 Objects: Venus (bright), Saturn (fainter), and the thin crescent moon
Venus is the brightest of the trio and easy to spot with the naked eye. Saturn is slightly below it and can be seen in clear skies even without an aid, although binoculars or a telescope will help to distinguish the planet well from background stars. The crescent moon completes the visual picture.
What can you see?
- Venus appears as a bright ‘star-like’ object with a constant glow. In a telescope, you see a phase, just like the moon.
- Saturn is much fainter but recognizable by its golden yellow color. With a telescope you can even see the rings at sufficient magnification.
- The moon is in a narrow diminishing crescent and shows earthshine (Earthshine), with the dark part being vaguely illuminated by sunlight reflected back through the earth.
Photography and observing tips
- Use a binoculars To distinguish Saturn from the background.
- With a telescope of at least 70 mm you can already see details such as the shadow of the moon or even the rings of Saturn.
- A smartphone holder is ideal for taking pictures through your eyepiece. While doing so, pay attention to focus and keep your ISO low.
- Take multiple pictures with short shutter speeds to reduce flare from Venus and increase contrast with the moon.
- For advanced users: stack multiple photos via apps such as Siril or DeepSkyStacker To make the most of light.
Bonus: Mercury is also visible
At the same time as this conjunction is Mercury visible low in the eastern sky. This small planet is often difficult to observe, but in the days around April 24 it is in a relatively favorable position. Those with an open view of the horizon can even spot four celestial bodies within a single field of view with a good pair of binoculars: Moon, Venus, Saturn and Mercury.
What do you need.
To fully enjoy this conjunction, we recommend:
- A light telescope with large field of view, such as the Seestar S50
- A smart telescope with tracking, such as the DWARF 3, for stable shots
- A comfortable lounger or field chair and warm clothing (it's still chilly in the early morning)
📌 Tip: Use our telescope choice guide for stargazing To find the right tool for such phenomena.
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Did you take your own photos of the conjunction? Share them with us! We collect the best observations in our monthly stargazing update. Join our newsletter or follow us on Instagram for real-time tips and updates.
Summary
The Venus Saturn conjunction April 2025 is a special phenomenon you don't want to miss. Thanks to the addition of the moon, it is not only a visual spectacle, but also a teachable moment to experience the dynamics of the solar system. Whether you look with the naked eye or with a sophisticated telescope, this is the perfect time to get up early and admire the universe.
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