Tuesday 26th May 2026

The Jewelled / Golden Handle for the UK Observers

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(Photo above The Jewelled Handle ~ Image by Derek Rowley)
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• The Jewel Handle for the UK Observers
  The Moon’s Jewel or Golden Handle is visible from the UK once each lunar month, roughly 2-4 days after First Quarter Moon, when the Sun grazes the Montes Jura and lights their peaks while Sinus Iridum is still in darkness ~ this creates the bright “handle” effect along the terminator.
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• After the First Quarter Moon (half-moonlit), the Moon increases towards the Full Moon in the waxing gibbous phase ~ the time when the Jewelled handle shines brightest.
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• This effect is only visible for a few days each month ~ roughly 2-4 days after the first quarter Moon.
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• Equipment
  You will need a small telescope or binoculars (8×42 or 10×50) are enough to show the arc beautifully.
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2026 The Golden / Jewel Handle

2026

The Golden / Jewel Handle for the UK Observers
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• More search for The Clair-Obscur Effects from her website for essentially the dates, times, explanations or how to observe them – www.marymcintyres.astronomy.co.uk

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Back to 2026 May Highlights
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