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Each month I highlight a few objects you can spot in the night sky without the need for optical equipment. Here are the exciting things for JULY 2021!
LAST chance to see Mars for a while too.
Ans see if you can spot the summer triangle.
I hope a number of you watched the partial eclipse of the sun last month. Let me know if you did what it was like for you!
PLANETS
There certainly are some great opportunities to spot our neighbours this month.
Venus and Mars
Venus and Mars appear close to each other this month and are visible in the early evening sky.
The planets are a few degrees apart early in the month. You will need a low horizon to the west-north west. Venus is bright so you'll not miss it, although sadly after all the brilliance of mars over the last year it has now faded- although still visible.
Look for them if you can on the 12th and 13th as there's a crescent moon too, making for a beautiful sight.
Venus in the WEST on the 12th June around 9:15pm - just as the sun sets
Courtesy of Stellarium
The Gas Giants - Jupiter and Saturn
How to Observe
Saturn
Saturn is in the constellation of Capricornus- which may not help you find it I know! Mid month it will be rising around 10pm low down in the south-east horizon. It is followed by the much brighter Jupiter.
Jupiter
This magnificent planet will be visible all month and will be shining down on you! You can't miss it. Early in the month it rises around 11:45pm and will be visible until dawn. It is worth waiting up for.
I highlight objects you can see with the naked eye but if you do have binoculars then hold them steady against a wall and view Jupiter. You may be able to spot as many as 4 of its moons.
Saturn and Jupiter midmonth in a south easterly direction around midnight BST
Courtesy of Stellarium
The Summer Triangle
The three stars that make up the summer triangle are each part of different constellations but together make up what is known as an asterism.
During the summer months (when it finally gets dark enough!) you can spot this asterism flying high in the sky. later in the summer the beautiful milky way appears to cross it's path.
The Summer Triangle
Courtesy of BBC Science Focus
The star Deneb is in the constellation of Cygnus, Altair is in Aquila and the brightest star Vega is in Lyra.
Let me know if you spot this wonderful asterism.
Enjoy the night sky this month and let me know about your observations
Thank you for reading this blog and do let me know if there is anything you would like me to add to my Newsletter each month.
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