Feb. 17’s new moon eclipses the sun and begins Lunar New Year, with Ramadan beginning the following day. Both are lunar festivals.

Here’s exactly when, where and how to see a beautiful crescent moon grow in the southwestern sky after dark every night this week.

Each Monday, I pick out North America’s celestial highlights for the week ahead (which also apply to mid-northern latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere).

Today’s new moon sets up a rare ‘ring of fire’ annular solar eclipse, Chinese New Year and Ramadan — all aligning on Feb. 17, 2026.

A new moon on Sunday, Jan. 18, means dark skies and some of the best stargazing conditions of the year. Here are the bright stars, constellations and objects to see.

Each Monday, I pick out North America’s celestial highlights for the week ahead (which also apply to mid-northern latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere).

On Jan. 10, 2026, Jupiter reaches opposition, the moment when Earth passes directly between the planet and the sun. It puts the planet at its brightest and best in 2026.

Tonight, a brilliant near-full moon rises in the east with Regulus, the heart of Leo, just ahead. Don’t miss this striking sky pairing as they climb into the night sky.

Jupiter is the brilliant evening “star” visible after sunset this winter, peaking in brightness at opposition on Jan. 10, 2026, and dazzling through March.

Each Monday, I pick out North America’s celestial highlights for the week ahead (which also apply to mid-northern latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere).