September brings an extraordinary celestial showcase to Phoenix’s night skies that stargazers won’t want to miss. The month features a spectacular supermoon that will appear larger and brighter than usual, creating perfect viewing opportunities across the Valley of the Sun. Along with this lunar spectacle, several planets will align in prime positions, offering rare glimpses of our solar system neighbors through even modest telescopes or binoculars.
Jupiter and Saturn: Gas Giants on Display
The mighty gas giants Jupiter and Saturn take center stage in Phoenix’s September skies, creating a breathtaking planetary duo. Jupiter’s brilliant white glow outshines nearly everything else in the night sky except the moon, while Saturn’s more subtle golden hue reveals itself to patient observers.
Both planets reach peak visibility around 10:00 PM, with Jupiter’s cloud bands and four largest moons visible through even modest binoculars. Saturn’s magnificent rings require a telescope but reward viewers with one of astronomy’s most awe-inspiring sights.
The clear, dry Phoenix air makes these distant worlds pop against the dark background. Consider visiting the Phoenix Mountains Preserve for unobstructed views away from the worst city light pollution – and remember that both planets remain visible until dawn!…