How to Watch the Mars Occultation During January's Supermoon
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01/12/2025 09:00 AM
The moon will occult Mars in a rare astronomical event, coinciding with the month's full Wolf Moon that peaks on the same night
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Moon and Mars conjunctionPoint your eyes to the sky!
The moon will occult Mars on Jan. 13, a rare extraterrestrial event that coincides with the first full lunation of the year.
January's full moon, nicknamed the Wolf Moon, will pass in front of our Red Planet, making it disappear in the night for skywatchers looking up. The best part? The astronomical phenomenon will be visible in most parts of the world.
Furthermore, skywatchers will be able to watch the moon pass in front of Mars with the naked eye, depending on where the event is being viewed from Earth. According to NASA, the occultation will take place for more than an hour in specific parts of the United States.
The upcoming event is just another example of Mars on the move! Astrologically, the red planet left Leo and returned to Cancer on Jan. 6 where it initially resided at 17 degrees in October 2024. As Mars continues its transit, the space agency says you'll notice it getting brighter and brighter.
By the night of Jan. 16, Mars will reach opposition — meaning, that the planet will be directly opposite the Sun (as seen from Earth) and appear closer than it ever has before. In addition to its radiant appearance, NASA notes that even details could be visible through a telescope.
Read on for how to watch the moon occult Mars!
What is Mars occultation?
When the moon occults Mars, the lunar mass will appear to pass in front of the red planet in the night sky. During this event, which happens over the course of a few hours, the moon will be approaching its fullest phase.
When will Mars occultation take place?
The moon will begin to occult Mars after sundown around 8:44 p.m. ET on Monday, Jan. 13, and continue through early morning on Tuesday, Jan. 14 until approximately 1:52 a.m. ET.
For more accurate timing closer to the event, check websites like Stellarium Web or the Astronomical League's 'Moon Occults Mars' chart to best gauge activity.
How to watch the Mars occultation?
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Moon and marsMany countries all over the world will be able to watch the moon occult Mars from Earth, including Europe, western Russia and Northern Africa, per In the Sky. Parts of the United States, like eastern Alaska, are also predicted to have great views.
The best part about this space event is that no equipment is necessary! Just look to the suggested southern skies, let your eyes adjust to the darkness and soak in the beauty of the moon and Mars.
Like all astronomical events, however, the best views are dependent upon weather conditions (fingers crossed for clear skies, no rain and zero clouds)! Dark viewing areas are also a plus, so avoid places with light pollution when watching.
When was the last Mars occultation?
The last time the moon occulted mars was on Dec. 18, 2024.
