On Monday evening, Venus and a young crescent moon are expected to create an attractive pairing for observers in the UK with a clear view towards the south-west. The moon will be just over three days old, with about 14% of its visible surface illuminated.
The two celestial bodies will make their closest approach during daylight hours around lunchtime, passing within a moon's width of each other. By the evening, they will have separated slightly.
Observers should first locate the slender crescent moon low in the south-western sky and then use it as a guide to find Venus nearby. As the sun sets, Venus is expected to become progressively easier to see, though both the moon and planet will be descending towards the horizon. It is advised not to use visual equipment or look directly at the sun while it is still above the horizon.