December 25, 2003
The light from the farthest visible stars set out on its journey long before your first birthday.
Venus and the 37 Hour Moon
Birthday · December 25, 2003
A little universe, just for you
Your date.
Ready to give.
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APOD published December 25, 2003. Credit: James W. Young (Table Mountain Observatory), Used With Permission. A publication-date match, not a photo taken on your date. Independent of NASA.
At Table Mountain Observatory, near Wrightwood California, USA on October 26, wild fires were approaching from the east. But looking toward the west just after sunset, astronomer James Young could still enjoy this comforting view of a young crescent Moon and brilliant Venus through the the fading twilight. Setting over the horizon of Mt. Baden-Powell, the thin crescent was only about 37 hours "old", or 37 hours after its exact New Moon phase. After disappearing from morning twilight in August, Venus was becoming prominent in its role in western skies as the evening star. A similar lovely pairing of thin crescent Moon and stunning evening star can be seen toward the west in today's evening twilight. Happy Holidays and Best Wishes from APOD!
Image credit: James W. Young (Table Mountain Observatory), Used With Permission