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Each month I highlight a few objects you can spot in the night sky without the need for optical equipment.
There are planets to spot this month (including Mercury) and a partial eclipse (93%) of the Sun this month.
PLANETS
Mercury
Mercury is an elusive planet but this month there is a really good chance you'll be able to see it. The planet follows the Sun, so it's really important you don't use binoculars prior to a complete sunset. In any case you should be able to spot the planet without optical equipment.
The planet is visible in the early evening sky during the first half of the month. It will be low- down just after sunset in the west direction. (below bright Venus). It will be shining relatively brightly but you will need a good low horizon and an evening with little haze.
If you use optical equipment you may spot that it is phased (44% March 8th to 16% March 15th).
This diagram should help you locate the planet.
Mercury and Venus in the first half of March just after sunset (18:30 in this example)
Courtesy of Stellarium
Venus
Close to Mercury during the first half of March, dazzling brightly low down (so you'll see the difference between Mercury and Venus).
Mars
Mars will be visible all month high in the sky from sunset until around midnight. By the end of March it is considerably fainter so try and observe earlier in the month. The planet is close to the two prominent stars of Gemini Castor and Pollux.
Mars high in the sky mid evening in a southerly direction - notice Orion too!
Courtesy of Stellarium
Jupiter
Jupiter will be shining brightly in March although it will be best to observe during the first half of the month. It is close to the red star of Taurus, Aldebaran high in the sky in the south west.
On the 5th March Jupiter will be close to a crescent Moon making for a beautiful sight!
Jupiter close to a crescent Moon on the 5th - south west
Courtesy of Stellarium
Saturn
Too difficult this month.
Partial Solar Eclipse
It is rare for UK observers get a chance to see an eclipse of the sun from home soil. Although it is not a total eclipse it is still rather spectacular! 93% of the Sun will be hidden.
It will be visible on the morning of March 29th. It will last from 8:50am to 12:43 with the maximum eclipse at 10:48.
Remember DO NOT observe the Sun directly.
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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