Moon to obscure Pleiades star cluster in North America tonight
On January 9, 2025, the moon will pass in front of the Pleiades star cluster, creating an occultation visible to many in North America. This event allows observers to see stars in the cluster disappear and reappear behind the moon. The current series of Pleiades occultations began in November 2023 and will continue until July 2029. This is a change from the last series, which occurred between 2005 and 2010. The next opportunities to view the moon crossing the Pleiades will be on February 6 and July 20, 2025. Skywatchers in different regions will have varying visibility. In New York City, the moon will cover several stars, including Electra and Alcyone, starting around 7:06 p.m. EST. Timetables for specific locations are available for those interested in viewing the event.