In the early hours of Friday, May 23, U.K.-based astrophotographer Josh Dury captured a breathtaking cosmic alignment over Chew Valley Lake in Somerset. The rare event featured Venus, Saturn, and a delicate waning crescent moon forming a “celestial triangle” in the pre-dawn sky.
The image, taken at 4 a.m. BST (11 p.m. EDT / 03:00 GMT), showcases the serene beauty of the moment, as the planets and moon appeared just above the still surface of the lake. Venus, shining brilliantly, was located just below the crescent moon, while Saturn appeared higher in the sky, completing the triangular formation.
“The planets Saturn, Venus, and the waning crescent moon formed a beautiful cosmic display,” Dury shared in a statement to Space.com. He described the tranquil scene, emphasizing the misty morning air and calm waters that mirrored the celestial display, creating a truly ethereal atmosphere.
“For this scene, I had drawn attention to a simple, natural composition,” he said. “Picture the scene at dawn break; rolling mist over the Great Lake, the sound of a distant cuckoo fills the air and water so still — it was like a mirror.”
Dury captured the image using a Sony A7S II camera paired with a Sigma 85mm F/1.4 Art lens, mounted on a Benro Tortoise Tripod, ensuring crisp detail in the low-light conditions of early morning.
For skywatchers who missed this brief but striking event, there’s still a chance to witness a similar sight. Early on Saturday, May 24, the crescent moon will shift to the left of Venus, with Saturn maintaining its higher position in the sky.
Whether you’re an experienced stargazer or a newcomer hoping to capture your own celestial moment, guides to the best binoculars, telescopes, and astrophotography gear can help you prepare for the next opportunity to admire the wonders above.
