What’s Up For Skywatchers This Month

Since it’s in front of the sun from our Earthly perspective, Mercury is not visible this month. However, Venus – now in its last crescent phase – can be clearly seen just above the east-northeastern horizon just before dawn.

Mars, now at its faintest and furthest away, hangs low in the western evening sky.  Passing close to the blue-white triple star Regulus on the evenings of July 21 and July 22,  with the new crescent moon appearing close above and to the left of Mars and Regulus right after sunset.

Jupiter is high in the south-southwest sky during twilight. With even a small telescope, the colorful cloud belts running parallel to the Jovian equator are clearly visible. On the evening of July 5, the moon will be just below Jupiter, making it easy to find.

Finally, is you have a clear view of the western horizon, you’ll be able to spot Saturn during this week. Since it’s low in the west right after dark, you may have difficulty seeing it unless you’re near the West Coast or live in a flatland region with few obstructions on the horizon.

Via Post Journal Online

Since it’s in front of the sun from our Earthly perspective, Mercury is not visible this month. However, Venus – now in its last crescent phase – can be clearly seen just above the east-northeastern horizon just before dawn.

Mars, now at its faintest and furthest away, hangs low in the western evening sky.  Passing close to the blue-white triple star Regulus on the evenings of July 21 and July 22,  with the new crescent moon appearing close above and to the left of Mars and Regulus right after sunset.

Jupiter is high in the south-southwest sky during twilight. With even a small telescope, the colorful cloud belts running parallel to the Jovian equator are clearly visible. On the evening of July 5, the moon will be just below Jupiter, making it easy to find.

Finally, is you have a clear view of the western horizon, you’ll be able to spot Saturn during this week. Since it’s low in the west right after dark, you may have difficulty seeing it unless you’re near the West Coast or live in a flatland region with few obstructions on the horizon.

Via Post Journal Online