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Lunar Occultation

Published: 3rd May, 2024

Context

The moon recently crossed in front of the well-known red star Antares, as captured by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) in Bengaluru.


What is Lunar Occulation?

  • In astronomy, a lunar occultation is when the Moon blocks out another celestial object, like a star, planet, or asteroid.
  • Because of the Moon's close vicinity, this phenomena, like an eclipse, can only be seen from particular points on Earth.

About Antares:

  • Known by many by the name Jyeshtha, Antares is the brightest star in the Scorpius constellation.
  • It is located about 550 light-years from Earth and is classified as an M1 red supergiant star,
  • The M1 designation indicates that Antares is reddish in color and much cooler than many other stars. 

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