Venus, known as the “Evening Star,” has reached its Greatest Eastern Elongation, a celestial phenomenon that places the planet at its farthest angular distance from the Sun in the evening sky.
This dazzling event first occurred on Friday, 10 January 2025, offering stargazers in South Africa the perfect opportunity to witness one of the brightest objects in the night sky.
What does the greatest eastern elongation mean?
The Greatest Eastern Elongation refers to the point in Venus’s orbit where it appears the furthest east of the Sun from Earth’s perspective.
During this event, Venus shines brightly in the evening sky, reaching an angular separation of 47.2 degrees from the Sun.
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For weeks leading up to and following this event, Venus dominates the western horizon after sunset, outshining most other celestial objects with its brilliance.
The best way to view Venus in South Africa
For South African stargazers, Venus can be seen clearly in the western sky shortly after sunset.
Here’s how to get the best view:
- Timing: The optimal viewing window is between 19:30 and 21:00 SAST.
- Location: Choose a spot with minimal light pollution and a clear view of the western horizon. Coastal and rural areas are excellent for stargazing.
- Tools: Venus is easily visible to the naked eye. However, using a telescope or binoculars can reveal its crescent phase, a unique feature of the planet during elongation.
- Weather check: Ensure clear skies by checking local forecasts for your area.
Venus will continue to shine brightly in the evening sky for several weeks following this elongation.
Gradually, it will draw closer to the Sun’s glare, becoming less visible.
The next opportunity to see Venus at its Greatest Eastern Elongation will occur on 15 August 2026, but tonight’s event remains one of the most spectacular sightings of the planet this year.
