Rare six-planet alignment and Perseid meteor shower highlight August skies

August 2025 is expected to be one of the best months for stargazing, with eight celestial events set to light up the skies, according to National Geographic.

First on the list is the Sturgeon Moon on 9 August — a name given to August’s full moon after the sturgeon fish, which are abundant during this season. In addition, the “moon illusion,” an optical effect that makes the moon appear larger than usual, may be witnessed.

In the early hours of 10 August, Mercury, Venus, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune will be visible in the sky. According to astronomers, the first four planets can be observed without optical aid, while Uranus and Neptune will require the use of binoculars or a telescope. Such a six-planet alignment is a rare occurrence, happening only once every few decades.

On the night of the same day, 2 Pallas — one of the big four asteroids — will reach its peak brightness and be positioned opposite the Sun, making it visible throughout the night.

The Perseid meteor shower, on the other hand, will peak on the night of 12 August until the morning of 13 August. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration says that visibility of the shower will start at approximately 10:06 p.m., with 5 to 6 a.m. being the ideal time to observe it.

On the morning of 19 August, the greatest western elongation of Mercury from the Sun will be witnessed. Alongside the planet, Venus and Jupiter will also grace the skies.

Further, Mercury, Venus, and Jupiter will show themselves once again and sit near the crescent moon at dawn on 21 August, where bright stars Castor, Pollux, and Procyon will join the display.

Meanwhile, the absence of the moon on 23 August makes it the best time to stargaze. Andromeda and other galaxies may be viewed.

Finally, on 26 August, the Moon and Mars will be in close proximity with 2°27’ distance to each other at approximately 9:59 p.m. in the Philippines.