Tuesday, August 31, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday September 2 to Thursday September 9
The New Moon is Wednesday September 8. Mars, Venus and Spica form a triangle in the sky. Mars closes in on the bright star Spica. Jupiter can be seen in the east in the late evening. Jupiter and Uranus are seen together in binoculars
Evening sky looking East as seen from Adelaide at 8:30 pm on Thursday September 9 showing Jupiter close to Uranus. Similar views will be seen elsewhere at the equivalent local time. Click to embiggen.
The New Moon is Wednesday September 8.
Jupiter rises before midnight, and can be readily seen from about 8 pm local time just above the eastern horizon. At the beginning of the week you can see Jupiter rising in the east while Venus is setting in the west.
Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars. Uranus is the brightest object within a binocular field north of Jupiter, and is in fact bright enough to be (just) seen with the unaided eye under dark sky conditions. A binocular spotters map is here. During the week Jupiter and Uranus come closer.
Jupiter is still visible in the early morning in the north-western sky as the brightest object low above the horizon.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Venus, Mars, Spica and Saturn at 6:30 pm local time on Monday September 6. Click to embiggen.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset).
Venus is in Virgo the Virgin, close to Mars and the bright star Spica (alpha Virginis) forming a triangle. Venus rises higher during the week, and Mars closes in on Spica, coming closest on the 6th. Saturn is low in the twilight, just above the horizon.
Mars is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is visible low in the western evening twilight sky as the bright yellow object well below Venus and Mars. During the week Saturn comes closer to the horizon. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is now extremely difficult as Saturn sets earlier. On Thursday September 9 the thin crescent moon will be close to Saturn, but you will need a clear, level horizon to see them together.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums. Jupiter is well worth telescopic observation, and even in binoculars its Galilean moons are easily seen.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Evening sky looking East as seen from Adelaide at 8:30 pm on Thursday September 9 showing Jupiter close to Uranus. Similar views will be seen elsewhere at the equivalent local time. Click to embiggen.The New Moon is Wednesday September 8.
Jupiter rises before midnight, and can be readily seen from about 8 pm local time just above the eastern horizon. At the beginning of the week you can see Jupiter rising in the east while Venus is setting in the west.
Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars. Uranus is the brightest object within a binocular field north of Jupiter, and is in fact bright enough to be (just) seen with the unaided eye under dark sky conditions. A binocular spotters map is here. During the week Jupiter and Uranus come closer.
Jupiter is still visible in the early morning in the north-western sky as the brightest object low above the horizon.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Venus, Mars, Spica and Saturn at 6:30 pm local time on Monday September 6. Click to embiggen.Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset).
Venus is in Virgo the Virgin, close to Mars and the bright star Spica (alpha Virginis) forming a triangle. Venus rises higher during the week, and Mars closes in on Spica, coming closest on the 6th. Saturn is low in the twilight, just above the horizon.
Mars is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is visible low in the western evening twilight sky as the bright yellow object well below Venus and Mars. During the week Saturn comes closer to the horizon. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is now extremely difficult as Saturn sets earlier. On Thursday September 9 the thin crescent moon will be close to Saturn, but you will need a clear, level horizon to see them together.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums. Jupiter is well worth telescopic observation, and even in binoculars its Galilean moons are easily seen.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday August 26 to Thursday September 2
The Last Quarter Moon is Thursday September 2. Mars Venus and Saturn form an elongated triangle. Venus closes in on the bright star Spica. Mercury is lost from view. Comet Encke may be visible in binoculars. Jupiter can be seen in the east in the late evening.
Evening sky looking East as seen from Adelaide at 10:00 pm on Friday August 27 showing Jupiter close to the Moon. Similar views will be seen elsewhere at the equivalent local time. Click to embiggen.
The Last Quarter Moon is Thursday September 2.
Jupiter rises before midnight, and can be readily seen from about 9 pm local time just above the eastern horizon. By the end of the week you can see Jupiter rising in the east while Venus is setting in the west. On the 26th and 27th Jupiter is close to the Moon. You may be able to use the Moon to guide you to see Jupiter in the daylight, but Jupiter and the Moon set soon after Sunrise.
Jupiter is still visible in the north-western sky as the brightest object low in the early morning. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars. Uranus is the brightest object within a binocular field north of Jupiter.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Venus, Mars, Saturn and Comet Encke at 6:30 pm local time on Tuesday August 31. Click to embiggen.
Mercury can be seen above the western horizon from half an hour after sunset. By the end of the week, it is lost in the twilight.
Comet 2P Encke may be visible in binoculars at the beginning of the week, but is rapidly lost to view. Those with telescopes may see Encke near the Sombreo galaxy on the 30th.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus is now in Virgo the Virgin, close to Mars with Saturn below forming a long, narrow triangle. Venus closes in on the bright star Spica, alpha Virginis and is closest on the 31st. During the week Mars also comes closer to Spica.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is below Venus, at the beginning of the week. Mars is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is visible low in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object below Venus and Mars. During the week Saturn draws further apart from the pair. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is now difficult as Saturn sets earlier.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Evening sky looking East as seen from Adelaide at 10:00 pm on Friday August 27 showing Jupiter close to the Moon. Similar views will be seen elsewhere at the equivalent local time. Click to embiggen.The Last Quarter Moon is Thursday September 2.
Jupiter rises before midnight, and can be readily seen from about 9 pm local time just above the eastern horizon. By the end of the week you can see Jupiter rising in the east while Venus is setting in the west. On the 26th and 27th Jupiter is close to the Moon. You may be able to use the Moon to guide you to see Jupiter in the daylight, but Jupiter and the Moon set soon after Sunrise.
Jupiter is still visible in the north-western sky as the brightest object low in the early morning. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars. Uranus is the brightest object within a binocular field north of Jupiter.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Venus, Mars, Saturn and Comet Encke at 6:30 pm local time on Tuesday August 31. Click to embiggen.Mercury can be seen above the western horizon from half an hour after sunset. By the end of the week, it is lost in the twilight.
Comet 2P Encke may be visible in binoculars at the beginning of the week, but is rapidly lost to view. Those with telescopes may see Encke near the Sombreo galaxy on the 30th.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus is now in Virgo the Virgin, close to Mars with Saturn below forming a long, narrow triangle. Venus closes in on the bright star Spica, alpha Virginis and is closest on the 31st. During the week Mars also comes closer to Spica.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is below Venus, at the beginning of the week. Mars is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is visible low in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object below Venus and Mars. During the week Saturn draws further apart from the pair. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is now difficult as Saturn sets earlier.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday August 19 to Thursday August 26
The Full Moon is Wednesday August 25. Four of the 5 classic planets are visible together in the early evening sky. Mars Venus and Saturn form a triangle, with Mars and Venus closest on the 19th. Mercury is below these three. Comet Encke may be visible in binoculars near Mercury on the 19th. Jupiter can be seen in the east in the late evening.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Mercury,Venus, Mars, Saturn and Comet Encke at 6:30 pm local time on Thursday August 19. Click to embiggen.
The Full Moon is Wednesday August 25.
Jupiter rises before midnight, and can be readily seen from about 9 pm local time just above the eastern horizon. By the end of the week you can see Jupiter rising in the east while Venus is setting in the west.
Jupiter is still visible in the north-western sky as the brightest object low in the early morning. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars. Uranus is the brightest object within a binocular field north of Jupiter.
Evening sky looking North-west as seen from Adelaide at 6:30 pm on Thursday August 26 showing Mercury below the massing of the Spica, Venus, Saturn, and Mars. Comet Encke is not far from Saturn. Similar views will be seen elsewhere at the equivalent local time. Click to embiggen.
Four of the five classic planets can be seen together in the early evening sky making fantastic patterns.
Mercury can be seen above the western horizon from half an hour after sunset. It is still quite easy to see, just below the massing of Venus, Mars and Saturn. On the 19th Mercury and the comet 2P/Encke are a degree apart, and Encke should be reasonably visible in binoculars. On the 20th, Mercury and Comet Encke within a binocular field of each other. The Comet is at at magnitude 7 and may be a little difficult to spot, it will look like a fuzzy dot. Over the week Encke climbs higher in the evening sky, but fades rapidly, and may be lost to binoculars by the 25th
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus is now in Virgo the Virgin, close to Mars and Saturn. On Thursday August 19 Venus, is at its closest to Mars, forming a long narrow triangle with Saturn. During the week Mars and Venus close in on the bright star Spica.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is beside Venus, at the beginning of the week. Mars is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object below Venus and Mars. During the week Saturn draws further apart from the pair. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is now difficult as Saturn sets earlier.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Mercury,Venus, Mars, Saturn and Comet Encke at 6:30 pm local time on Thursday August 19. Click to embiggen.The Full Moon is Wednesday August 25.
Jupiter rises before midnight, and can be readily seen from about 9 pm local time just above the eastern horizon. By the end of the week you can see Jupiter rising in the east while Venus is setting in the west.
Jupiter is still visible in the north-western sky as the brightest object low in the early morning. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars. Uranus is the brightest object within a binocular field north of Jupiter.
Evening sky looking North-west as seen from Adelaide at 6:30 pm on Thursday August 26 showing Mercury below the massing of the Spica, Venus, Saturn, and Mars. Comet Encke is not far from Saturn. Similar views will be seen elsewhere at the equivalent local time. Click to embiggen.Four of the five classic planets can be seen together in the early evening sky making fantastic patterns.
Mercury can be seen above the western horizon from half an hour after sunset. It is still quite easy to see, just below the massing of Venus, Mars and Saturn. On the 19th Mercury and the comet 2P/Encke are a degree apart, and Encke should be reasonably visible in binoculars. On the 20th, Mercury and Comet Encke within a binocular field of each other. The Comet is at at magnitude 7 and may be a little difficult to spot, it will look like a fuzzy dot. Over the week Encke climbs higher in the evening sky, but fades rapidly, and may be lost to binoculars by the 25th
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus is now in Virgo the Virgin, close to Mars and Saturn. On Thursday August 19 Venus, is at its closest to Mars, forming a long narrow triangle with Saturn. During the week Mars and Venus close in on the bright star Spica.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is beside Venus, at the beginning of the week. Mars is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object below Venus and Mars. During the week Saturn draws further apart from the pair. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is now difficult as Saturn sets earlier.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday August 12 to Thursday August 19
The First Quarter Moon is Tuesday August 17. Four of the 5 classic planets are visible together in the early evening sky. Mercury is prominent below these planets and is close to the crescent Moon on the 12th. Perseid meteor shower morning of 13th. The crescent Moon joins the triad of Venus, Mars and Saturn on the 13th. Comet Encke may be visible in binoculars near Mercury by the 17th.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Mercury,Venus, Mars, Saturn and the crescent Moon at 7:00 pm local time on Thursday August 12. Click to embiggen.
The First Quarter Moon is Tuesday August 17. on the 12th the Moon visits Mercury, on the 13th it visits Venus, Saturn and Mars, on the 14th it is close to the star Spica and on the 17th it is in the head of Scorpius the Scorpion.
Jupiter rises before midnight, and can be readily seen from about 10 pm local time just above the eastern horizon.
Jupiter is still visible in the north-western sky as the brightest object low in the early morning. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars. Uranus is the brightest object within a binocular field north of Jupiter.
The morning of Friday August 13 is the maximum of the Perseid meteor shower. Only observers north of Brisbane/Alice Springs will see any significant number of meteors.
Evening sky looking North-west as seen from Adelaide at 7:00 pm on Friday August 13 showing Mercury below the massing of the Crescent Moon, Venus, Saturn, and Mars. Similar views will be seen elsewhere at the equivalent local time. Click to embiggen.
Four of the five classic planets can be seen together in the early evening sky making fantastic patterns.
Mercury can be seen above the western horizon from half an hour after sunset at the beginning of the week. It is now quite easy to see, just below the massing of Venus, Mars and Saturn. On the 12th the thin crescent Moon is not far from Mercury. At the end of the week Mercury and the comet 2P/Encke are within a binocular field of each other, but at magnitude 7 the comet may be difficult to spot low in the evening sky.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus is now in Virgo the Virgin, close to Mars and Saturn. On Friday August 13 Venus, Saturn, Mars and the crescent Moon are close together. During the week Venus comes closer to Mars and further form Saturn. By the end of the week Mars and Venus are close, and both are closing in on the bright star Spica.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is above Venus, at the beginning of the week. Mars is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object close to Venus. During the week Saturn and Venus draw apart. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is now difficult as Saturn sets earlier.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Mercury,Venus, Mars, Saturn and the crescent Moon at 7:00 pm local time on Thursday August 12. Click to embiggen.The First Quarter Moon is Tuesday August 17. on the 12th the Moon visits Mercury, on the 13th it visits Venus, Saturn and Mars, on the 14th it is close to the star Spica and on the 17th it is in the head of Scorpius the Scorpion.
Jupiter rises before midnight, and can be readily seen from about 10 pm local time just above the eastern horizon.
Jupiter is still visible in the north-western sky as the brightest object low in the early morning. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars. Uranus is the brightest object within a binocular field north of Jupiter.
The morning of Friday August 13 is the maximum of the Perseid meteor shower. Only observers north of Brisbane/Alice Springs will see any significant number of meteors.
Evening sky looking North-west as seen from Adelaide at 7:00 pm on Friday August 13 showing Mercury below the massing of the Crescent Moon, Venus, Saturn, and Mars. Similar views will be seen elsewhere at the equivalent local time. Click to embiggen.Four of the five classic planets can be seen together in the early evening sky making fantastic patterns.
Mercury can be seen above the western horizon from half an hour after sunset at the beginning of the week. It is now quite easy to see, just below the massing of Venus, Mars and Saturn. On the 12th the thin crescent Moon is not far from Mercury. At the end of the week Mercury and the comet 2P/Encke are within a binocular field of each other, but at magnitude 7 the comet may be difficult to spot low in the evening sky.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus is now in Virgo the Virgin, close to Mars and Saturn. On Friday August 13 Venus, Saturn, Mars and the crescent Moon are close together. During the week Venus comes closer to Mars and further form Saturn. By the end of the week Mars and Venus are close, and both are closing in on the bright star Spica.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is above Venus, at the beginning of the week. Mars is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object close to Venus. During the week Saturn and Venus draw apart. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is now difficult as Saturn sets earlier.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Tuesday, August 03, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday August 5 to Thursday August 12
The New Moon is Tuesday August 10. Four of the 5 classic planets are visible together in the early evening sky forming interesting patterns. Venus is close to Mars and Saturn with Venus and Saturn coming side by side on the 8th. Mercury is prominent below these planets and is close to the crescent Moon on the 12th. Jupiter is now in the evening sky.
Evening sky looking North-west as seen from Adelaide at 7:00 pm on Sunday August 8 showing Mercury below Saturn, Venus and Mars. Similar views will be seen elsewhere at the equivalent local time. Click to embiggen.
The New Moon is Tuesday August 10.
Jupiter rises before midnight, and can be readily seen from about 11 pm local time just above the eastern horizon.
Jupiter is still clearly visible in the north-western sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough in the morning sky for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars. Uranus is the brightest object within a binocular field north of Jupiter.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Mercury,Venus, Mars, Saturn and the crescent Moon at 7:00 pm local time on Thursday August 12. Click to embiggen.
Four of the five classic planets can be seen together in the early evening sky making fantastic patterns.
Mercury can be seen above the western horizon from half an hour after sunset at the beginning of the week. It is now quite easy to see, just below the massing of Venus, Mars and Saturn. On the 12th the thin crescent Moon is not far from Mercury.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus is in Leo the lion, not far from Mars and Saturn. During the week Venus comes closer to Mars and Saturn. On Sunday August 8 Venus and Saturn are at their closest. With Mars above they form an attractive triangle.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is above Venus, close to Saturn at the beginning of the week. Mars is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object close to red Mars. uring the week Saturn and Venus draw closer. On Sunday August 8 Venus and Saturn are at their closest. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is now difficult as Saturn sets earlier.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Evening sky looking North-west as seen from Adelaide at 7:00 pm on Sunday August 8 showing Mercury below Saturn, Venus and Mars. Similar views will be seen elsewhere at the equivalent local time. Click to embiggen.The New Moon is Tuesday August 10.
Jupiter rises before midnight, and can be readily seen from about 11 pm local time just above the eastern horizon.
Jupiter is still clearly visible in the north-western sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough in the morning sky for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars. Uranus is the brightest object within a binocular field north of Jupiter.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Mercury,Venus, Mars, Saturn and the crescent Moon at 7:00 pm local time on Thursday August 12. Click to embiggen.Four of the five classic planets can be seen together in the early evening sky making fantastic patterns.
Mercury can be seen above the western horizon from half an hour after sunset at the beginning of the week. It is now quite easy to see, just below the massing of Venus, Mars and Saturn. On the 12th the thin crescent Moon is not far from Mercury.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus is in Leo the lion, not far from Mars and Saturn. During the week Venus comes closer to Mars and Saturn. On Sunday August 8 Venus and Saturn are at their closest. With Mars above they form an attractive triangle.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is above Venus, close to Saturn at the beginning of the week. Mars is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object close to red Mars. uring the week Saturn and Venus draw closer. On Sunday August 8 Venus and Saturn are at their closest. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is now difficult as Saturn sets earlier.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Thursday, July 29, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday July 29 to Thursday August 5
The Last Quarter Moon is Tuesday August 3. Four of the 5 classic planets are visible together in the early evening sky. Venus is close to Mars and Saturn. Mars and Saturn are side by side. Mercury is prominent below these planets. Jupiter is now in the evening sky.
Evening sky looking east as seen from Adelaide at 11:00 pm on Friday July 30 showing the Moon and Jupiter. Similar views will be seen elswhere at the equivalent local time. Click to embiggen.
The Last Quarter Moon is Tuesday August 3.
Jupiter rises before midnight, and can be readily see from about 11 pm local time, on Friday July 30 the waing Moon is close to Jupiter.
Jupiter is still clearly visible in the north-western sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough in the morning sky for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Mercury,Venus, Mars, Saturn and Regulus at 7:00 pm local time on Saturday July 31. Click to embiggen.
Four of the five classic planets can be seen together in the early evening sky making fantastic patterns.
Mercury can be seen above the western horizon from half an hour after sunset at the beginning of the week. It is now quite easy to see, just above the bright star Regulus and below the massing of Venus, Mars and Saturn.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus is in Leo the lion, not far from Mars and Saturn. During the week Venus comes closer to Mars and Saturn. On Saturday July 31 Venus, mars and Saturn form an attractive triangle.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is above Venus, close to Saturn at the beginning of the week. Mars and Saturn are side by side on Saturday 31 . Mars is now only slightly brighter than Regulus, but is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object close to red Mars. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is now difficult as Saturn sets earlier.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Evening sky looking east as seen from Adelaide at 11:00 pm on Friday July 30 showing the Moon and Jupiter. Similar views will be seen elswhere at the equivalent local time. Click to embiggen.The Last Quarter Moon is Tuesday August 3.
Jupiter rises before midnight, and can be readily see from about 11 pm local time, on Friday July 30 the waing Moon is close to Jupiter.
Jupiter is still clearly visible in the north-western sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough in the morning sky for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Mercury,Venus, Mars, Saturn and Regulus at 7:00 pm local time on Saturday July 31. Click to embiggen.Four of the five classic planets can be seen together in the early evening sky making fantastic patterns.
Mercury can be seen above the western horizon from half an hour after sunset at the beginning of the week. It is now quite easy to see, just above the bright star Regulus and below the massing of Venus, Mars and Saturn.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus is in Leo the lion, not far from Mars and Saturn. During the week Venus comes closer to Mars and Saturn. On Saturday July 31 Venus, mars and Saturn form an attractive triangle.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is above Venus, close to Saturn at the beginning of the week. Mars and Saturn are side by side on Saturday 31 . Mars is now only slightly brighter than Regulus, but is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object close to red Mars. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is now difficult as Saturn sets earlier.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday July 22 to Thursday July 28
The Full Moon is Monday July 26. Four of the 5 classic planets are visible together in the early evening sky. Venus is close to Mars and Saturn. During the week Mercury becomes more prominent and comes close to Regulus. Mars and Saturn come closer. Jupiter is prominent in the morning sky.
Evening sky looking east as seen from Adelaide at 11:30 pm on Thursday July 28 showing the Moon and Jupiter. Click to embiggen.
The Full Moon is Monday July 26.
Jupiter rises before midnight, but is still clearly visible in the northern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough in the morning sky for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Mercury,Venus, Mars, Saturn and Regulus at 6:00 pm local time on Thursday July 28. Click to embiggen.
Mercury can be seen above the western horizon from half an hour after sunset at the beginning of the week. It becomes easier to see during the week rising in the evening sky and coming closer to Regulus. On Wednesday July 27 Mercury is less than a fingerwidth from Regulus.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus is in Leo the lion, not far from Mars and Saturn. During the week Venus comes closer to Mars and Saturn.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is to the right of Venus, close to Saturn at the beginning of the week. Mars comes closer to Saturn during the week and are nearly side by side by . Mars is now only slightly brighter than Regulus, but is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object close to red Mars. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is now difficult as Saturn sets earlier. On the 28th of July, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just above the planets North pole.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Evening sky looking east as seen from Adelaide at 11:30 pm on Thursday July 28 showing the Moon and Jupiter. Click to embiggen.The Full Moon is Monday July 26.
Jupiter rises before midnight, but is still clearly visible in the northern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough in the morning sky for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Mercury,Venus, Mars, Saturn and Regulus at 6:00 pm local time on Thursday July 28. Click to embiggen.Mercury can be seen above the western horizon from half an hour after sunset at the beginning of the week. It becomes easier to see during the week rising in the evening sky and coming closer to Regulus. On Wednesday July 27 Mercury is less than a fingerwidth from Regulus.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus is in Leo the lion, not far from Mars and Saturn. During the week Venus comes closer to Mars and Saturn.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is to the right of Venus, close to Saturn at the beginning of the week. Mars comes closer to Saturn during the week and are nearly side by side by . Mars is now only slightly brighter than Regulus, but is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object close to red Mars. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is now difficult as Saturn sets earlier. On the 28th of July, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just above the planets North pole.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday July 15 to Thursday July 22
The First Quarter Moon is Sunday July 18. Four of the 5 classic planets are visible together in the early evening sky. Venus is close to Regulus. The crescent Moon, Mars and Saturn are close on the 16th, with Mercury below. During the week Mercury becomes more prominent and Mars and Saturn come closer. Jupiter is prominent in the morning sky.
Evening sky looking north-west as seen from Adelaide at 5:50 pm on Friday July 16 showing the crescent Moon near Mars and Saturn. Click to embiggen.
The First Quarter Moon is Sunday July 18.
Jupiter rises before midnight, but is still clearly visible in the northern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Mercury,Venus, Mars, Saturn and Regulus at 5:50 pm local time on Thursday July 22. Click to embiggen.
Mercury can be seen low above the western horizon from half an hour after sunset at the beginning of the week. It becomes easier to see during the week rising in the evening sky and coming closer to Regulus.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus is in Leo the lion, not far from Regulus, the brightest star in Leo, Mars and Saturn. During the week Venus comes closer to Mars and Saturn.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is to the right of Venus, close to Saturn at the beginning of the week. The crescent Moon, Mars and Saturn are close on the 16th, with Mercury below. Mars comes closer to Saturn during the week. Mars is now only slightly brighter than Regulus, but is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object close to red Mars. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is becoming more difficult as Saturn sets earlier. Saturn is high enough in the sky for the best telescopic views at around 7 pm. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. On the 20th of July, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just below the planets South pole.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Evening sky looking north-west as seen from Adelaide at 5:50 pm on Friday July 16 showing the crescent Moon near Mars and Saturn. Click to embiggen.The First Quarter Moon is Sunday July 18.
Jupiter rises before midnight, but is still clearly visible in the northern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Mercury,Venus, Mars, Saturn and Regulus at 5:50 pm local time on Thursday July 22. Click to embiggen.Mercury can be seen low above the western horizon from half an hour after sunset at the beginning of the week. It becomes easier to see during the week rising in the evening sky and coming closer to Regulus.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus is in Leo the lion, not far from Regulus, the brightest star in Leo, Mars and Saturn. During the week Venus comes closer to Mars and Saturn.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is to the right of Venus, close to Saturn at the beginning of the week. The crescent Moon, Mars and Saturn are close on the 16th, with Mercury below. Mars comes closer to Saturn during the week. Mars is now only slightly brighter than Regulus, but is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object close to red Mars. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is becoming more difficult as Saturn sets earlier. Saturn is high enough in the sky for the best telescopic views at around 7 pm. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. On the 20th of July, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just below the planets South pole.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Tuesday, July 06, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday July 8 to Thursday July 15
The New Moon is Monday July 12. This week sees 4 of the 5 classic planets visible in the evening sky. Venus is close to Regulus on the 10 and 11th. Venus, Regulus and the thin crescent Moon are close on the 14th, with Mercury below. Venus the crescent moon and Mars make a nice lineup on the 15th with Saturn close by. Jupiter is prominent in the morning sky.
Evening sky looking north-west as seen from Adelaide at 7:00 pm on Saturday July 10. Click to embiggen.
The New Moon is Monday July 12.
Jupiter rises before midnight, but is still clearly visible in the northern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Mercury,Venus, Mars, Saturn and Regulus at 5:50 pm local time on Wednesday July 14. Click to embiggen.
Mercury can be seen by the keen-eyed low above the western horizon half an hour after sunset at the beginning of the week, but becomes easier to see during the week. On the 13th the thin crescent Moon is near Mercury low in the west in the twilight.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus is in Leo the lion, close to Regulus, the brightest star in Leo, Mars and Saturn. On the July 10th Venus and Regulus are closest at 1 degree (about a fingerwidth) apart. On Wednesday July 14 the crescent Moon, Venus and Regulus are close. On the next night, July 15, Venus, the crescent Moon and Mars form a shallow triangle.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is to the right of Regulus, midway between Regulus and Saturn at the beginning of the week. Mars comes closer to Saturn during the week. Mars is now only slightly brighter than Regulus, but is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica, just up from Mars. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is becoming more difficult as Saturn sets earlier. Saturn is high enough in the sky for the best telescopic views at around 7 pm. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. On the 12th of July, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just above the planets North pole.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Evening sky looking north-west as seen from Adelaide at 7:00 pm on Saturday July 10. Click to embiggen.The New Moon is Monday July 12.
Jupiter rises before midnight, but is still clearly visible in the northern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Mercury,Venus, Mars, Saturn and Regulus at 5:50 pm local time on Wednesday July 14. Click to embiggen.Mercury can be seen by the keen-eyed low above the western horizon half an hour after sunset at the beginning of the week, but becomes easier to see during the week. On the 13th the thin crescent Moon is near Mercury low in the west in the twilight.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus is in Leo the lion, close to Regulus, the brightest star in Leo, Mars and Saturn. On the July 10th Venus and Regulus are closest at 1 degree (about a fingerwidth) apart. On Wednesday July 14 the crescent Moon, Venus and Regulus are close. On the next night, July 15, Venus, the crescent Moon and Mars form a shallow triangle.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is to the right of Regulus, midway between Regulus and Saturn at the beginning of the week. Mars comes closer to Saturn during the week. Mars is now only slightly brighter than Regulus, but is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica, just up from Mars. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is becoming more difficult as Saturn sets earlier. Saturn is high enough in the sky for the best telescopic views at around 7 pm. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. On the 12th of July, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just above the planets North pole.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday July 1 to Thursday July 8
The Last Quarter Moon is Monday July 5. Venus is readily visible in the early evening, heading towards Regulus. Venus, Regulus, Mars and Saturn make an attractive line up. Mercury returns to the evening sky. Jupiter is prominent in the morning sky and is close to the Moon on Sunday July 4.
Jupiter is clearly visible in the northern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars (spotters map here). On Sunday July 4 the waning Moon is close to Jupiter.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Mercury,Venus, Mars and Regulus at 5:50 pm local time on Thursday July 8. Click to embiggen.
Mercury can be seen by the keen-eyed low above the western horizon half an hour after sunste by the end of the week.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus starts the week in Leo, forming a line with the Regulus, Mars and Saturn. During the week Venus moves closer towards Regulus as a prelude to some spectacular planetary alignments in July and August.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is to the right of Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion at the beginning of the week and will draw further away from it during the week, coming closer to Saturn. Mars is now only slightly brighter than Regulus, but is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica, just up from Mars. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is now becoming more difficult. Saturn is high enough in the sky for the best telescopic views at around 7 pm. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. On the 4th of July, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just below the planets South pole.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Morning sky looking east as seen from Adelaide at 4:30 am on Sunday July 4. Click to embiggen.
The Last Quarter Moon is Monday July 5.
The Last Quarter Moon is Monday July 5.
Jupiter is clearly visible in the northern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars (spotters map here). On Sunday July 4 the waning Moon is close to Jupiter.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Mercury,Venus, Mars and Regulus at 5:50 pm local time on Thursday July 8. Click to embiggen.Mercury can be seen by the keen-eyed low above the western horizon half an hour after sunste by the end of the week.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus starts the week in Leo, forming a line with the Regulus, Mars and Saturn. During the week Venus moves closer towards Regulus as a prelude to some spectacular planetary alignments in July and August.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is to the right of Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion at the beginning of the week and will draw further away from it during the week, coming closer to Saturn. Mars is now only slightly brighter than Regulus, but is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica, just up from Mars. Telescopic observation of the ringed world is now becoming more difficult. Saturn is high enough in the sky for the best telescopic views at around 7 pm. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. On the 4th of July, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just below the planets South pole.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday June 24 to Thursday July 1
The Full Moon is Saturday June 26, and there will be a good partial eclipse of the Moon. Venus is readily visible in the early evening, heading towards Regulus. Venus, Regulus, Mars and Saturn make an attractive line up. Jupiter is prominent in the morning sky.
Evening sky looking east as seen from Adelaide at 9:08 pm on Saturday July 26, 2010. Click to embiggen.
The Full Moon is Saturday June 26. On the evening of Saturday, June 26 there will be a partial eclipse of the Moon. This will be seen through-out Australia, New Zealand, the pacific, south-east Asia and parts of the Americas.
The timing of the eclipse is in the early evening on a Saturday, so this is a great time to get the family involved in watching. I've made a printable guide for kids with directions (Australia specific), and some activities they can do during the eclipse. Maximum eclipse depth is 9:38 pm eastern states, 9:08 pm central states and 7:38 pm WA, with over half the Moon covered. For more details see here.
The morning sky facing north-east in Australia on Sunday June 27 at 4:30 am local time showing Jupiter. Click to embiggen.
Jupiter is clearly visible in the northern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars (spotters map here). There is no evidence of impact scars from the object that crashed into Jupiter on the 3rd of June.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Venus, the Moon, Mars and Regulus at 6:30 pm local time on Sunday June 27. Click to embiggen.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus starts the week in Cancer, forming a line with the Regulus, Mars and Saturn. During the week Venus moves towards Regulus as a prelude to some spectacular planetary alignments in July and August. By the end of the week Venus is in the constellation of Leo the Lion.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is to the right of Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion at the beginning of the week and will draw further away from it during the week, coming closer to Saturn. Mars is now only slightly brighter than Regulus, but is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica, just up from Mars. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views at around 8 pm. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. On the 26th of June, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just above the planets north pole.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Evening sky looking east as seen from Adelaide at 9:08 pm on Saturday July 26, 2010. Click to embiggen.The Full Moon is Saturday June 26. On the evening of Saturday, June 26 there will be a partial eclipse of the Moon. This will be seen through-out Australia, New Zealand, the pacific, south-east Asia and parts of the Americas.
The timing of the eclipse is in the early evening on a Saturday, so this is a great time to get the family involved in watching. I've made a printable guide for kids with directions (Australia specific), and some activities they can do during the eclipse. Maximum eclipse depth is 9:38 pm eastern states, 9:08 pm central states and 7:38 pm WA, with over half the Moon covered. For more details see here.
The morning sky facing north-east in Australia on Sunday June 27 at 4:30 am local time showing Jupiter. Click to embiggen.Jupiter is clearly visible in the northern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars (spotters map here). There is no evidence of impact scars from the object that crashed into Jupiter on the 3rd of June.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Venus, the Moon, Mars and Regulus at 6:30 pm local time on Sunday June 27. Click to embiggen.Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus starts the week in Cancer, forming a line with the Regulus, Mars and Saturn. During the week Venus moves towards Regulus as a prelude to some spectacular planetary alignments in July and August. By the end of the week Venus is in the constellation of Leo the Lion.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. Mars is to the right of Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion at the beginning of the week and will draw further away from it during the week, coming closer to Saturn. Mars is now only slightly brighter than Regulus, but is distinguishable by its reddish colouring.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica, just up from Mars. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views at around 8 pm. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. On the 26th of June, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just above the planets north pole.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday June 17 to Thursday June 24
The First Quarter Moon is Saturday June 19. Mercury is lost in the twilight glow. Venus is readily visible in the early evening. On June 17 the Moon and Mars are close. On June 19 Saturn and the Moon are close. On June 20 Venus is close to the Beehive cluster. Jupiter is prominent in the morning sky. On the 21st Earth is at Winter Solstice.
The morning sky facing north-east in Australia on Sunday June 20 at 4:30 am local time showing Jupiter.
The First Quarter Moon is Saturday June 19.
Mercury is low in the morning sky and by the end of the week it is lost in the twilight.
Jupiter is clearly visible in the north-eastern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars (spotters map here).
Evening sky looking North-west showing Venus, the Moon, Mars and Regulus at 7:30 pm local time on Thursday June 17. Click to embiggen.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus starts the week in Cancer, forming a line with the bright stars Procyon an Sirius, and moves towards the Beehive cluster during the week. On the 20th and 21st Venus is close to the Beehive cluster, although you will need to observe this event in binoculars to see the Beehive without it being overwhelmed by Venus's light.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. It has faded a lot, but is still the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Mars is to the right of Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion at the beginning of the week and will draw away from it during the week. The waxing Moon, Mars and Regulus form a nice triangle on Thursday June 17.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica, just up from Mars. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views at around 8 pm. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. On the 18th of June, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just below the planets south pole.
Earth is a Winter solstice, when the day is shortest, on June 21.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
The morning sky facing north-east in Australia on Sunday June 20 at 4:30 am local time showing Jupiter.The First Quarter Moon is Saturday June 19.
Mercury is low in the morning sky and by the end of the week it is lost in the twilight.
Jupiter is clearly visible in the north-eastern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars (spotters map here).
Evening sky looking North-west showing Venus, the Moon, Mars and Regulus at 7:30 pm local time on Thursday June 17. Click to embiggen.Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus starts the week in Cancer, forming a line with the bright stars Procyon an Sirius, and moves towards the Beehive cluster during the week. On the 20th and 21st Venus is close to the Beehive cluster, although you will need to observe this event in binoculars to see the Beehive without it being overwhelmed by Venus's light.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. It has faded a lot, but is still the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Mars is to the right of Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion at the beginning of the week and will draw away from it during the week. The waxing Moon, Mars and Regulus form a nice triangle on Thursday June 17.
Saturn is easily visible in the western evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica, just up from Mars. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views at around 8 pm. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. On the 18th of June, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just below the planets south pole.
Earth is a Winter solstice, when the day is shortest, on June 21.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Monday, June 07, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday June 10 to Thursday June 17
The New Moon is Saturday June 12. On the morning of June 11 Mercury is near the Moon which occults the Pleiades cluster. Venus is readily visible in the twilight. On June 15 the Moon and Venus are close. Saturn is seen in the evening above the northern horizon near the bright stars Regulus and Spica. Mars is very close to Regulus. Jupiter is prominent in the morning sky.
The morning sky facing north-east in Australia on Friday June 15 at 6:30 am local time showing the Moon and Mercury. the Moon is covering some of the beautiful Pleiades Cluster.
The New Moon is Saturday June 12.
Mercury is in the morning sky and is visible low to the horizon below Jupiter. On Friday June 11 the thin crescent Moon is close to Mercury. At this time the Moon also occults the Pleiades Cluster. This will be difficult to see if you don't have a fairly level, clear eastern horizon, Times of prominent star disappearances and appearances for major cities are listed here.
Jupiter is clearly visible in the north-eastern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars (spotters map here).
Evening sky looking North-west showing Venus, the Moon, and bright stars at 6:30 pm local time on Tuesday June 11. Click to embiggen.
Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus starts the week close to the bright star Pollux in Gemini, and moves away towards the Beehive cluster during the week. On the 15th the thin crescent Moon is close to Venus. This is a good opportunity to see Venus in daylight. You must be very careful to make sure you don't look directly at the Sun though.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. It has faded a lot, but is still the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Mars will be just to the right of Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion at the beginning of the week and will draw away from it during the week. The waxing Moon, Mars and Regulus form a nice triangle on Thursday June 17.
Saturn is rising before Sunset and is easily visible in the evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica, just up from Mars. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views at around 8 pm. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. On the 10th of June, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just above the planets north pole.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
The morning sky facing north-east in Australia on Friday June 15 at 6:30 am local time showing the Moon and Mercury. the Moon is covering some of the beautiful Pleiades Cluster.The New Moon is Saturday June 12.
Mercury is in the morning sky and is visible low to the horizon below Jupiter. On Friday June 11 the thin crescent Moon is close to Mercury. At this time the Moon also occults the Pleiades Cluster. This will be difficult to see if you don't have a fairly level, clear eastern horizon, Times of prominent star disappearances and appearances for major cities are listed here.
Jupiter is clearly visible in the north-eastern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars (spotters map here).
Evening sky looking North-west showing Venus, the Moon, and bright stars at 6:30 pm local time on Tuesday June 11. Click to embiggen.Bright white Venus is readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus starts the week close to the bright star Pollux in Gemini, and moves away towards the Beehive cluster during the week. On the 15th the thin crescent Moon is close to Venus. This is a good opportunity to see Venus in daylight. You must be very careful to make sure you don't look directly at the Sun though.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. It has faded a lot, but is still the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Mars will be just to the right of Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion at the beginning of the week and will draw away from it during the week. The waxing Moon, Mars and Regulus form a nice triangle on Thursday June 17.
Saturn is rising before Sunset and is easily visible in the evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica, just up from Mars. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views at around 8 pm. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. On the 10th of June, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just above the planets north pole.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Tuesday, June 01, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday June 3 to Thursday June 10
The Last Quarter Moon is Saturday June 5. Venus is readily visible in the twilight. Saturn is seen in the evening above the northern horizon near the bright stars Regulus and Spica. Mars is very close to Regulus. Jupiter is easily seen in the morning sky, with Mercury below it. On June 6 and 7 Jupiter is near the Moon.
The morning sky facing north-east in Australia on Monday June 7 at 5:45 am local time showing Jupiter, Uranus, the Moon and Mercury.
The Last Quarter Moon is Saturday June 5.
Mercury is in the morning sky and is visible low to the horizon below Jupiter.
Jupiter is clearly visible in the north-eastern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars. They will be at their closest on Tuesday June 8, where they can be seen together in low power telescope eyepieces. On Sunday June 6 and Monday June 7 Jupiter is close to the waning Moon.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Venus, Mars, and bright stars at 6:45 pm local time on Monday June 7. Click to embiggen.
Bright white Venus is now readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). During the week Venus comes closer to the bright star Pollux in Gemini.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. It has faded a lot, but is still the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Mars will be just under Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion at the end of the Week. Mars is at its closest to Regulus on Monday June 7.
Saturn is rising before Sunset and is easily visible in the evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica, just up from Mars. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views at around 8 pm. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. On the 10th of June, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just above the planets north pole.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
The morning sky facing north-east in Australia on Monday June 7 at 5:45 am local time showing Jupiter, Uranus, the Moon and Mercury.The Last Quarter Moon is Saturday June 5.
Mercury is in the morning sky and is visible low to the horizon below Jupiter.
Jupiter is clearly visible in the north-eastern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars. They will be at their closest on Tuesday June 8, where they can be seen together in low power telescope eyepieces. On Sunday June 6 and Monday June 7 Jupiter is close to the waning Moon.
Evening sky looking North-west showing Venus, Mars, and bright stars at 6:45 pm local time on Monday June 7. Click to embiggen.Bright white Venus is now readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). During the week Venus comes closer to the bright star Pollux in Gemini.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. It has faded a lot, but is still the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Mars will be just under Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion at the end of the Week. Mars is at its closest to Regulus on Monday June 7.
Saturn is rising before Sunset and is easily visible in the evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica, just up from Mars. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views at around 8 pm. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. On the 10th of June, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just above the planets north pole.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday May 27 to Thursday June 3
The Full Moon is Friday May 28. Venus is readily visible in the twilight. Saturn is seen in the evening above the northern horizon near the bright stars Regulus and Spica. Mars is very close to Regulus. Jupiter is easily seen in the morning sky, with Mercury below it.
The morning sky facing north-east in Australia on Sunday May 30 at 5:30 am local time showing Jupiter, Uranus and Mercury.
The Full Moon is Friday May 28.
Mercury is in the morning sky and is visible low to the horizon below Jupiter. Mercury is at its best this week.
Jupiter is clearly visible in the north-eastern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars. They will be at their closest next week.
Evening sky looking North showing Mars, the Moon, Saturn and bright stars at 10:00 pm local time on Sunday May 23. Click to embiggen.
Bright white Venus is now readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). On Friday 28 May Venus is very close to the moderately bright star Metsuba in Gemini.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. It has faded a lot, but is still the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Mars will be just under Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion at the end of the Week. However, the closest approach to Regulus will be newt week.
Mars forms a line with Regulus, Saturn and Spica.
Saturn is rising before Sunset and is easily visible in the evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica, just up from Mars. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views at around 8 pm. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. On the 2nd of June, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just below the planets south pole.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Don't forget about the competition!
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
The morning sky facing north-east in Australia on Sunday May 30 at 5:30 am local time showing Jupiter, Uranus and Mercury.The Full Moon is Friday May 28.
Mercury is in the morning sky and is visible low to the horizon below Jupiter. Mercury is at its best this week.
Jupiter is clearly visible in the north-eastern sky as the brightest object in the early morning. Jupiter is now high enough for telescopic observation to be rewarding. Jupiter looks a little different now that one of its bands has disappeared. Jupiter and Uranus are close together and can be seen near each other in a pair of binoculars. They will be at their closest next week.
Evening sky looking North showing Mars, the Moon, Saturn and bright stars at 10:00 pm local time on Sunday May 23. Click to embiggen.Bright white Venus is now readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until past the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). On Friday 28 May Venus is very close to the moderately bright star Metsuba in Gemini.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. It has faded a lot, but is still the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Mars will be just under Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion at the end of the Week. However, the closest approach to Regulus will be newt week.
Mars forms a line with Regulus, Saturn and Spica.
Saturn is rising before Sunset and is easily visible in the evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica, just up from Mars. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views at around 8 pm. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. On the 2nd of June, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just below the planets south pole.
If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Don't forget about the competition!
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday May 20 to Thursday May 27
The First Quarter Moon is Friday May 21. Venus is readily visible in the twilight. Saturn is seen in the evening above the northern horizon near the bright stars Regulus and Spica. On May 23 the Moon is close to Saturn. Jupiter is easily seen in the morning sky, with Mercury below it. On May 20 the Moon is close to Mars.
The morning sky facing north-east in Australia on Sunday May 27 at 5:30 am local time showing Jupiter Uranus and Mercury.
The First Quarter Moon is Friday May 21.
Saturn is rising before Sunset and is easily visible in the evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica. On Sunday May 23 the Moon is near Saturn. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. On the 25th of May, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just above the planets north pole.
However, it is best to wait until around 9 pm, when Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Mercury is in the morning sky and is visible low to the horizon below Jupiter.
Bright white Venus is now readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus stars the week not far from Gemini, as as the week progresses it comes closer to some moderately bright stars of this constellation.
Jupiter is now easy to see in the morning sky as the brightest object above the north-eastern horizon. With Mercury below it they will make a fine morning sight. Uranis is withing a binocular field of Jupiter, and you can follow their progress as Jupiter comes closer to Uranus.
Evening sky looking North showing Mars, the Moon, Saturn and bright stars at 10:00 pm local time on Sunday May 23. Click to embiggen.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. It has faded a lot, but is still the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Red Mars is in Leo, and is coming closer to Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion. On Thursday May 20 Mars is close to the Moon.
Mars forms a line with Regulus, Saturn and Spica.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
The morning sky facing north-east in Australia on Sunday May 27 at 5:30 am local time showing Jupiter Uranus and Mercury.The First Quarter Moon is Friday May 21.
Saturn is rising before Sunset and is easily visible in the evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica. On Sunday May 23 the Moon is near Saturn. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. On the 25th of May, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just above the planets north pole.
However, it is best to wait until around 9 pm, when Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Mercury is in the morning sky and is visible low to the horizon below Jupiter.
Bright white Venus is now readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus stars the week not far from Gemini, as as the week progresses it comes closer to some moderately bright stars of this constellation.
Jupiter is now easy to see in the morning sky as the brightest object above the north-eastern horizon. With Mercury below it they will make a fine morning sight. Uranis is withing a binocular field of Jupiter, and you can follow their progress as Jupiter comes closer to Uranus.
Evening sky looking North showing Mars, the Moon, Saturn and bright stars at 10:00 pm local time on Sunday May 23. Click to embiggen.In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. It has faded a lot, but is still the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Red Mars is in Leo, and is coming closer to Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion. On Thursday May 20 Mars is close to the Moon.
Mars forms a line with Regulus, Saturn and Spica.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Monday, May 10, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday May 13 to Thursday May 20
The New Moon is Friday May 14. Venus is readily visible in the twilight, on Sunday May 16 Venus is very close to the crescent Moon between Zeta Tauri and the star Elnath. Saturn is seen in the evening above the northern horizon near the bright stars Regulus and Spica. Jupiter is easily seen in the morning sky, with Mercury below it. On May 20 the Moon is close to Mars.
The evening sky facing west in Australia on Sunday May 16 at 6:00 pm local time showing Venus and the Moon.
The New Moon is Friday May 14.
Saturn is rising before Sunset and is easily visible in the evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. On the 17th of May, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just below the planets south pole.
However, it is best to wait until around 9 pm, when Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Mercury returns to the morning sky and is visible low to the horizon below Jupiter.
Bright white Venus is now readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus stars the week not far from the Hyades cluster and the red star Aldebaran almost directly between the two stars that make up the horns of the Bull (Elnath and Zeta Tauri). On Sunday 16 May the crescent Moon is very close to Venus (in some parts of the world it goes in front of it). As twilight falls and the Moons earthshine and the constellation of Orion becomes visible, this will be a beautiful sight.
Jupiter is now easy to see in the morning sky as the brightest object above the north-eastern horizon. With Mercury below it they will make a fine morning sight.
Evening sky looking North showing Mars, the Moon, Saturn and bright stars at 9:00 pm local time on Thursday May 20. Click to embiggen.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. It has faded a lot, but is still the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Red Mars is in Leo, and is coming closer to Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion.
Mars forms a line with Regulus, Saturn and Spica.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
The evening sky facing west in Australia on Sunday May 16 at 6:00 pm local time showing Venus and the Moon.The New Moon is Friday May 14.
Saturn is rising before Sunset and is easily visible in the evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. On the 17th of May, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just below the planets south pole.
However, it is best to wait until around 9 pm, when Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Mercury returns to the morning sky and is visible low to the horizon below Jupiter.
Bright white Venus is now readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until the end of twilight (about an hour and a half after sunset). Venus stars the week not far from the Hyades cluster and the red star Aldebaran almost directly between the two stars that make up the horns of the Bull (Elnath and Zeta Tauri). On Sunday 16 May the crescent Moon is very close to Venus (in some parts of the world it goes in front of it). As twilight falls and the Moons earthshine and the constellation of Orion becomes visible, this will be a beautiful sight.
Jupiter is now easy to see in the morning sky as the brightest object above the north-eastern horizon. With Mercury below it they will make a fine morning sight.
Evening sky looking North showing Mars, the Moon, Saturn and bright stars at 9:00 pm local time on Thursday May 20. Click to embiggen.In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. It has faded a lot, but is still the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Red Mars is in Leo, and is coming closer to Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion.
Mars forms a line with Regulus, Saturn and Spica.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Tuesday, May 04, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday May 6 to Thursday May 13
The Last Quarter Moon is Thursday May 6. Venus is readily visible in the twilight near the star Elnath. Mars enters Leo. Saturn is seen in the evening above the northern horizon near the bright stars Regulus and Spica. Jupiter is easily seen in the morning sky. On Monday May 10 the crescent Moon is close to Jupiter, on Wednesday May 12 crescent Moon is close to Mercury.
The morning sky facing east in Australia on May 10 at 6:00 am local time showing Jupiter and the Moon, with Mercury below.
The Last Quarter Moon is Thursday May 6.
Saturn is rising before Sunset and is easily visible in the evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. On the 9th of May, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just above the planets north pole.
However, it is best to wait until around 10 pm, when Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Mercury returns to the morning sky. You may have difficulty spotting it low in the morning twilight, but on the morning of Wednesday May 12 the thin crescent Moon is slightly above and top the left of Mercury.
Bright white Venus is now readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until the end of twilight. Venus stars the week not far from the Hyades cluster and the red star Aldebaran. Venus heads for the star Elnath, which tips one of the horns of Taurus the Bull. By the end of the week Venus is almost directly between the two stars that make up the horns of the Bull. You will need a flat, level horizon to see them at their best low in the late twilight sky.
Jupiter is now easy to see in the morning sky as the brightest object above the north-eastern horizon. On the monring of Monday May 10 the crescent Moon is close to Jupiter. With Mercury below this will make a fine morning sight.
Evening sky looking North showing Mars, Saturn and bright stars at 10:00 pm local time on Monday May 10. Click to embiggen.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. It has faded a lot, but is still the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Red Mars leaves the constellation of Cancer, and heads towards Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion.
Mars forms a line with Regulus, Saturn and Spica.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
The morning sky facing east in Australia on May 10 at 6:00 am local time showing Jupiter and the Moon, with Mercury below.The Last Quarter Moon is Thursday May 6.
Saturn is rising before Sunset and is easily visible in the evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. On the 9th of May, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just above the planets north pole.
However, it is best to wait until around 10 pm, when Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Mercury returns to the morning sky. You may have difficulty spotting it low in the morning twilight, but on the morning of Wednesday May 12 the thin crescent Moon is slightly above and top the left of Mercury.
Bright white Venus is now readily visible above the western horizon from half an hour after Sunset, (even before) until the end of twilight. Venus stars the week not far from the Hyades cluster and the red star Aldebaran. Venus heads for the star Elnath, which tips one of the horns of Taurus the Bull. By the end of the week Venus is almost directly between the two stars that make up the horns of the Bull. You will need a flat, level horizon to see them at their best low in the late twilight sky.
Jupiter is now easy to see in the morning sky as the brightest object above the north-eastern horizon. On the monring of Monday May 10 the crescent Moon is close to Jupiter. With Mercury below this will make a fine morning sight.
Evening sky looking North showing Mars, Saturn and bright stars at 10:00 pm local time on Monday May 10. Click to embiggen.In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky. It has faded a lot, but is still the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Red Mars leaves the constellation of Cancer, and heads towards Regulus, the bright star in Leo the lion.
Mars forms a line with Regulus, Saturn and Spica.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Monday, April 26, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday April 29 to Thursday May 6
The Last Quarter Moon is Thursday May 6. Venus is readily visible in the twilight near the bright star Aldebaran. Mars is close to the Beehive Cluster. Saturn is seen in the evening above the northern horizon near the bright stars Regulus and Spica. Jupiter is easily seen in the morning sky. On Friday April 30 the Moon is very close to the bright star Antares in Scorpius.
The evening sky facing west in Australia on April 30 at 6:15 pm local time showing Venus, the V-shaped Hyades cluster and Aldebaran.
The Last Quarter Moon is Thursday May 6.
Saturn is rising before Sunset and is easily visible in the evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. On the 1st of May, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just below the planets south pole.
However, it is best to wait until around 10 pm, when Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
On Friday April 30 the Moon is very close to the bright star Antares in Scorpius.
Mercury is lost in the twilight.
Bright white Venus continues to rise above from the twilight glow. Venus is now readily visible above the western horizon half an hour after Sunset, and even before. From Thursday 29 April to Sunday 2 May , Venus is close to the Hyades cluster and the red star Aldebaran. You will need a flat, level horizon to see them at their best low in the late twilight sky.
Jupiter is now easy to see in the morning sky as the brightest object above the north-eastern horizon.
Evening sky looking North showing Mars, Saturn and bright stars at 9:15 pm local time on Sunday May 2. Click to embiggen.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky as the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Red Mars is in the constellation of Cancer, near the Beehive Cluster (Praesaepe).
Mars is moving rapidly, leaving behind the beautiful Beehive Cluster.
Mars forms a line with the bright stars Sirius and Procyon. Mars forms another line with Regulus, Saturn and Spica.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
The evening sky facing west in Australia on April 30 at 6:15 pm local time showing Venus, the V-shaped Hyades cluster and Aldebaran.The Last Quarter Moon is Thursday May 6.
Saturn is rising before Sunset and is easily visible in the evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. On the 1st of May, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just below the planets south pole.
However, it is best to wait until around 10 pm, when Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
On Friday April 30 the Moon is very close to the bright star Antares in Scorpius.
Mercury is lost in the twilight.
Bright white Venus continues to rise above from the twilight glow. Venus is now readily visible above the western horizon half an hour after Sunset, and even before. From Thursday 29 April to Sunday 2 May , Venus is close to the Hyades cluster and the red star Aldebaran. You will need a flat, level horizon to see them at their best low in the late twilight sky.
Jupiter is now easy to see in the morning sky as the brightest object above the north-eastern horizon.
Evening sky looking North showing Mars, Saturn and bright stars at 9:15 pm local time on Sunday May 2. Click to embiggen.In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky as the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Red Mars is in the constellation of Cancer, near the Beehive Cluster (Praesaepe).
Mars is moving rapidly, leaving behind the beautiful Beehive Cluster.
Mars forms a line with the bright stars Sirius and Procyon. Mars forms another line with Regulus, Saturn and Spica.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
The Sky This Week - Thursday April 22 to Thursday April 29
The Full Moon is Wednesday April 28. Venus appears low in the twilight and is near the beautiful Pleiades cluster. Mars is close to the Beehive Cluster. Saturn is seen in the evening above the north-eastern horizon near the bight stars Regulus and Spica and is close to the Moon on Sunday April 25. Jupiter is easily seen in the morning sky.
The evening sky facing west in Australia on April 25 at 6:10 pm local time showing Venus and the Pleiades cluster.
The Full Moon is Wednesday April 28.
Saturn is rising around before Sunset and is easily visible in the evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. On the 23rd, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just above the planets north pole.
On Sunday 25 April the Moon is close to Saturn, then on Tuesday the nearly full Moon is very close to the bright star Spica.
However, it is best to wait until around 11 pm, when Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Mercury is lost in the twilight.
Bright white Venus continues to rise above from the twilight glow. People with flat, level horizons can see Venus above the western horizon half an hour after Sunset. From Thursday 22nd April to Sunday 25 April , Venus is close to the Pleidades cluster. You may need binoculars to see the faint cluser close to the horizon and you will need a flat, level horizon to see them low in the late twilight sky.
Jupiter is now relatively easy to see in the morning sky as the brightest object above the eastern horizon.
Evening sky looking North showing Mars, the Beehive Cluster and the Moon at 9:30 pm local time on Thursday April 22. Click to embiggen.
In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky as the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Red Mars is in the constellation of Cancer, near the Beehive Cluster (Praesaepe).
Mars is within binocular range of the beautiful Beehive Cluster this week. While Mars and the Beehive are easily seen under dark country skies, in the suburbs you will need binoculars to to see them. Even in low power binoculars they will look great.
On Thursday 22 April the waxing Moon is close to Mars, then on the 26th the waxing moon is close to the bright star Regulus.
Mars near the Beehive cluster, simulated 10x50 binocular view.
Mars forms a line with the bright stars Sirius and Procyon. Mars forms another line with Regulus, Saturn and Spica.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
The evening sky facing west in Australia on April 25 at 6:10 pm local time showing Venus and the Pleiades cluster.The Full Moon is Wednesday April 28.
Saturn is rising around before Sunset and is easily visible in the evening sky as the bright yellow object between the bright stars Regulus and Spica. Now is still a very good time for telescopic observation of the ringed world. On the 23rd, Saturns' Moon Titan cruises just above the planets north pole.
On Sunday 25 April the Moon is close to Saturn, then on Tuesday the nearly full Moon is very close to the bright star Spica.
However, it is best to wait until around 11 pm, when Saturn is quite high in the sky for the best telescopic views. Saturn's' rings are opening, and look quite beautiful, even in a small telescope. If you don't have a telescope, now is a good time to visit one of your local astronomical societies open nights or the local planetariums.
Mercury is lost in the twilight.
Bright white Venus continues to rise above from the twilight glow. People with flat, level horizons can see Venus above the western horizon half an hour after Sunset. From Thursday 22nd April to Sunday 25 April , Venus is close to the Pleidades cluster. You may need binoculars to see the faint cluser close to the horizon and you will need a flat, level horizon to see them low in the late twilight sky.
Jupiter is now relatively easy to see in the morning sky as the brightest object above the eastern horizon.
Evening sky looking North showing Mars, the Beehive Cluster and the Moon at 9:30 pm local time on Thursday April 22. Click to embiggen.In the evening Mars can be seen low in the north-western sky as the brightest (and clearly red) object in that part of the sky. Red Mars is in the constellation of Cancer, near the Beehive Cluster (Praesaepe).
Mars is within binocular range of the beautiful Beehive Cluster this week. While Mars and the Beehive are easily seen under dark country skies, in the suburbs you will need binoculars to to see them. Even in low power binoculars they will look great.
On Thursday 22 April the waxing Moon is close to Mars, then on the 26th the waxing moon is close to the bright star Regulus.
Mars near the Beehive cluster, simulated 10x50 binocular view.Mars forms a line with the bright stars Sirius and Procyon. Mars forms another line with Regulus, Saturn and Spica.
Printable PDF maps of the Eastern sky at 10 pm ADST, Western sky at 10 pm ADST. For further details and more information on what's up in the sky, see Southern Skywatch. Cloud cover predictions can be found at SkippySky.
Labels: weekly sky
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