What's Up? -JULY 2023

Each month I highlight a few objects you can spot in the night sky without the need for optical equipment.

Despite there being little darkness this time of year - you'll still be able to spot a number of wonderous sights!

Last chance to see Venus in the evening sky!

PLANETS

Venus

You may well have already spotted a bright object in the evening twilight sky and wondered what it is - well it's Venus dazzling you!

During the month Venus will gradually set earlier - meaning closer to the sun, so your chances of seeing it will gradually diminish. In early July it sets almost two hours after the sun but by the end of the month you only have minutes.

On the 19th July it is close to a crescent Moon and Mercury (if you can spot the elusive planet Mercury!)

Venus looking west after sunset on the 19th July

Courtesy of Stellarium

Mercury

Tough to see! But just maybe..

Jupiter

Early in the month Jupiter is a morning object but by the end of the month it will appear in the evening twilight sky.

Try spotting it on the morning of the 12th July rising in the north-eastern horizon at around 1:30am. (or is that night time?!)

Jupiter close to the crescent moon early on the 12th July

Courtesy of Stellarium

Mars

Mars is just there in the evening twilight but low down in the western sky. Try spotting as early in the month as possible.

Mars close to Venus around 22:00 on the 2nd July looking west.

Courtesy of Stellarium

Saturn

Saturn improves during the month. By the end of the month it will manage 27 degrees above the early morning southern horizon.

Saturn in the south at 4am on the morning of 31st July.

Courtesy of Stellarium

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.

chris@galaxyonglass.com