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Sky-Tonight.com / Solar System / Close Approaches / Close approach of Mars and Moon
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Observation Settings

Or select it on the map:
This Earth map lets you select the observer’s location used to calculate the bearing and elevation of celestial objects. The selected point determines how the sky, rise and set times, and object positions are shown.
Your location: Santa Clara, United States
Timezone:
Latitude:
37.3541
Longitude:
-121.955

Close approach of Mars and Moon on 4 October 2026 at 21:12

General information

Close approach of Mars / Moon — 4 October 2026 at 21:12
The closest separation between Mars and Moon will occur on 4 October 2026 at 21:12, when they will be separated by roughly 1.09°. Both objects will be below the horizon and cannot be observed.

Visibility window

The event begins when the separation drops below 2° at about 18:12, and ends when it grows beyond 2° at about 00:11. The objects can be followed during this interval when observing conditions permit.

Elevation and direction at closest approach

At closest approach, Mars and Moon will be approximately -21° above the horizon toward the north-east.

Constellation

Both objects will be located in or near the constellation Cancer. This can help you locate them in the sky.

Track Mars / Moon relative positions

Elevation (degrees)
Time1791180720
Altitude
Azimuth
Move the map to change the time and follow how the objects change position in the sky.

Close approach dynamics

The map shows the event from your location. Switch to global view for geocentric (Earth-centered) coordinates.
 

Close approach details

MarsMoon
Time 21:12
Angular separation (°) 1.09
Geocentric coordinates RA: 08h 27m 00s", Dec: 20° 16' 34s RA: 08h 28m 31s", Dec: 21° 18' 24s
Topocentric coordinates RA: 08h 27m 00s", Dec: 20° 16' 30s RA: 08h 30m 33s", Dec: 20° 31' 57s
Distance 1.6359 AU (244,727,157 km) 0.00249 AU (372,499 km)
Angular size 5.7" 32'
Altitude (°) -22 -22
Azimuth (°) 39 Northeast 38 Northeast