Science
Jun 16, 20261
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Virtual Telescope Project to livestream Moon, Venus and Jupiter conjunction
The Virtual Telescope Project plans a livestream of a close Moon-Venus-Jupiter grouping on 17 June 2026, starting at 19:45 UTC. The online observation will also highlight the Beehive Cluster and Mercury as additional binocular targets.
Quick Facts
Who
The Virtual Telescope Project
What
Announced a livestream of a celestial conjunction and evening sky observation
When
17 June 2026
Where
night sky
- Announced a livestream of a celestial conjunction and evening sky observation
- Highlighted the Moon appearing close to Venus
- Noted Jupiter positioned west of the Moon and Venus
- Identified the Beehive Cluster and Mercury as visible targets with binoculars
- The Virtual Telescope Project
The Virtual Telescope Project says it will livestream a close grouping of the Moon, Venus and Jupiter on 17 June 2026, offering an online view of the evening sky event. The stream is scheduled to begin at 19:45 UTC.
According to the project, the Moon will appear particularly close to Venus as the trio sets toward the horizon after sunset. Venus and Jupiter are described as having passed a conjunction about a week earlier and continuing to drift apart.
The project says the Moon will be separated from Venus by about half a degree, while Jupiter will sit roughly eight degrees to the west. It also says that, once the sky darkens, observers using binoculars may be able to spot the Beehive Cluster, or Messier 44, in Cancer, and Mercury about fifteen degrees west of the Moon.
The event is being presented as a live online observation for viewers who want to follow the celestial display from home. The announcement also notes the visibility of earthshine on the Moon during the viewing window.
Why This Matters
This livestream allows anyone with an internet connection to witness a striking celestial event where the Moon, Venus, and Jupiter appear close together in the evening sky. For astronomy enthusiasts and casual stargazers alike, it provides a unique opportunity to observe planetary conjunctions, the Beehive Cluster, and Mercury without specialized equipment, enhancing public engagement with astronomy.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 16, 2026
WireThe Virtual Telescope Project published the announcement for the 17 June 2026 livestream.
Jun 17, 2026
WireThe Virtual Telescope Project is scheduled to begin the livestream of the Moon, Venus and Jupiter observation.