April 23, 2025 | 04:15 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The eastern sky will present a rare celestial spectacle this Friday, April 25, 2025, as three astronomical objects align to create a formation resembling a smiling face.
Known as the smiley face phenomenon, this event is actually a triple conjunction involving Venus, Saturn, and a waning crescent moon appearing close together just before sunrise.
According to Live Science, the best time to witness this event is around 5:30 a.m. local tim, approximately one hour before the sun rises. At that moment, Venus will shine brightest in the eastern sky, with Saturn positioned slightly below it, and the delicate crescent moon sitting even lower, forming the curve of a smile.
If skies are clear and free of light pollution, this triangular alignment will be visible to the naked eye.
A Celestial Smile: Formation Details
NASA Solar System Ambassador Brenda Culbertson explains that the configuration will see Venus highest above the eastern horizon, Saturn a bit lower, and the crescent moon slightly to the north.
"Venus is higher above the eastern horizon with Saturn lower, and a thin, crescent Moon a bit lower and a little farther north. The thin, crescent Moon looks like a smile. To some people, the triangle of bright objects may appear," she said, as quoted by Live Mint.
However, viewers should not expect a perfectly emoji-like smile. Due to variations in planetary brightness and the angled alignment, the "smiley" will appear slightly tilted.
While Venus and Saturn are bright enough to be seen without equipment, a pair of binoculars or a small telescope can help observers appreciate the faint details of the crescent moon. If the skies are exceptionally clear and the eastern horizon unobstructed, it may even be possible to glimpse a faint Mercury below the trio, although its dim light makes it harder to spot.
This sky show comes just days after the peak of the Lyrid meteor shower, making it a special week for skywatchers and early risers.
How to Catch the Smiley Face in the Sky
To enjoy the celestial smile at its best, here are some tips:
Choose an open location: Look for a clear view of the eastern sky, away from buildings and trees.
Avoid city lights: Light pollution can hinder visibility, so opt for areas outside urban centers.
Set your alarm early: The formation is only visible for a short window before dawn.
Bring optical aid: Binoculars or a telescope can enhance the view, especially of the moon’s crescent.
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