Mercury, Mars, Saturn and a crescent Moon

Sydneysiders were treated to a beautiful planetary ensemble just before sunrise on 16 April 2026. Mercury, Mars and Saturn were close to the waning crescent Moon. This alignment will last for the next couple of weeks and is one of the astronomical events of 2026 as advised by Dr Andrew Jacob.

This morning's view was clear and at 5:50am I arrived at a point where I could see the Eastern horizon. You can see my results in the image below. I suggest rising a little earlier to fully appreciate Mars and Saturn, as they are not as bright as Mercury. While the weather holds it is worth getting up early.

Photograph of the Moon, Mercury, Mars and Saturn. Taken in Sydney, 16 April 2026 at 5:59am, by Toner Stevenson. Canon EOS80, 1" exposure, ISO1600, F13, 18-135mm lens.

Our secretary Elizabeth Cocking advises: 'instead of hitting the snooze button on your alarm, get up and have a look at this wonderful spectacle'.

Diagram left provided by Committee member, Dirk Goës, who also had an excellent view from the cliff tops above Bronte Beach.