What's Up? June 2025

Each month I highlight a few objects you can spot in the night sky without the need for optical equipment.

This month we have the return of Saturn to our skies and the chance to see the beautiful Noctilucent clouds!

Planets

Mercury

This planet is always difficult to spot as it follows the sun closely. However, there is a chance in the second half of the month if you have a good visibility in west-northwest horizon in the UK.

It is best seen shortly after sunset.

Example of Mercury low in the north west 22:30 on the 21st June

Courtesy of Stellarium

Venus

Venus is low down in the pre dawn sky for most of the month. It should be visible in the second half from southern UK shining brightly low down due east. If you are up early, probably around 4am you'll have the privilege of seeing the planet! Look out for the planet close to the moon on the 22nd pre dawn sky.

Venus close to a crescent moon around 4am on the 22nd June

Courtesy of Stellarium

Mars

Mars is best seen soon after sunset during the first half of the month. This month will be the last chance for a while to catch a glimpse of our red neighbour. Look due west just after twilight - around 10:45pm.

Example of Mars around 10:00pm close to a crescent moon early in June

Courtesy of Stellarium

Jupiter

Out of view this month

Noctilucent Clouds

Noctilucent clouds are an exclusively summer phenomenon - beautiful and delicate high level clouds just after sunset.

If you see them you'll be treated to a fine display of often bright iridescent blue, silver and white clouds spread across a range of delicate structures.

They appear during the period of late May until early August.

These clouds lie at altitudes of 75-85 Kilometres and are only visible in twilight.

Look to the northern sky between the north-western and north-eastern horizons.

Typically you'll see electric blue, golden and greenish colours.

Noctilucent Clouds

Enjoy!