New moon of January 2026 brings prime views of Jupiter, Saturn and winter stars tonight

image via Space.com

January 18, 2026, 1:00 PM

• •Jupiter and Saturn are prominent in the January night sky.
• •The new moon on January 18th provides dark skies for viewing.
• •Northern Hemisphere observers can see constellations like Orion and Gemini.
• •Southern Hemisphere observers can view Puppis, Carina, and Vela.

In January, with the new moon out of the way, Jupiter and Saturn will be prominent in the night sky. On January 18th, Saturn will be visible in the southwestern sky by 6 p.m., while Jupiter rises earlier, making it visible almost all night. The article provides details on how to spot these planets and constellations like Orion for both Northern and Southern Hemisphere observers, also mentioning that Mercury, Venus, and Mars are too close to the sun for observation. It also includes information on the best times and locations to view these celestial bodies.

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