Skywatchers, get ready! On the evening of Sunday, August 24, 2025, you’ll witness a captivating sight in the constellation Virgo. Mars, the ruddy red planet, will appear just under 3° south of Porrima, a fascinating double star system in Virgo.
Spotting Mars and Porrima
As evening falls, look toward the Virgo constellation in the southern sky. Mars will stand out with its distinctive reddish glow. Just above it, you’ll find Porrima, also known as Gamma Virginis. This star is actually a close pair of suns — a double star system visible even in small telescopes. The proximity of Mars to Porrima tonight offers a rare celestial pairing you won’t want to miss.
Why This Event Matters
Double stars like Porrima showcase the dynamic nature of our universe. Observing Mars alongside Porrima not only provides a beautiful sight but also gives amateur astronomers an excellent opportunity to compare a planet and a stellar system in the same field of view. So, grab your binoculars or telescope, and don’t forget to mark your calendars for this memorable night!
Sources:
https://www.astronomy.com/observing/the-sky-today-sunday-august-24-2025/
