Chicagoans can enjoy a stunning celestial show with a full moon, lunar occultation of Mars, and a parade of planets this Monday evening
Chicago: The Wolf Moon, which is the first full moon of the year, will light up the night sky this Monday. It’s called the Wolf Moon because it’s the first full moon after the winter solstice, a name rooted in Native American culture. They say it’s because wolves tend to howl a lot during this time.
But wait, there’s more! Chicagoans will also get to see a lunar occultation of Mars along with a parade of planets. So, what’s a lunar occultation? It’s when the moon passes in front of a celestial object, kind of like a solar eclipse but with the moon blocking a planet instead of the sun.
At 8:07 p.m., folks in Chicago will see Mars disappear behind the moon, and then it’ll pop back out at 9:17 p.m. These lunar occultations happen a few times a year, but they’re pretty rare for each planet, and not everyone around the world gets to see them.
On Monday night, the full moon will be shining bright, and Mars will look like a star right next to it. If you look closely, you might even catch a glimpse of Mars’ dusty red surface. It’s a pretty cool sight, especially on a clear January night in Chicago.
And Mars isn’t the only planet in the spotlight. Along with it, you’ll also be able to see Jupiter and Venus, both shining like bright stars. Mars will be the biggest and brightest since it’s getting closer to Earth and will be in opposition on Wednesday at 8:32 p.m.
