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Each month I highlight a number of objects you can spot with the naked eye. So here we go for November!
PLANETS
MERCURY
The elusive planet can be spotted this month! It hugs the sun of course so you must be carful and never use optical equipment.
It can be seen as a bright object early morning just before the sun rises- BEST BEFORE THE 10th of the month. Good luck with that one!
Mercury at 06:30am on the morning of the 10th - Looking EAST
Courtesy of Stellarium
The Gas Giants - Jupiter and Saturn
Jupiter is a stunning brilliant evening object although it does set prior to midnight.
Saturn is also visible close to Jupiter although for less time as it sets earlier.
Jupiter and Saturn - mid month- looking SOUTH early evening.
Courtesy of Stellarium
Venus
Venus is gaining height as the month goes on and can be seen BLAZING as it sets in the evening SOUTH WEST sky.
Venus in the South West as it sets early evening.
Courtesy of Stellarium
Mars is an early morning object at the end of the month but will be difficult to spot so we'll save that for December!
The Challenge
This month the challenge has more to do with getting out of bed and looking through the curtains than be able to spot something!
My favourite constellation in the night sky has to be Orion- The Hunter - with it's distinctive pattern and the amazing Orion nebula nestling below the belt of three stars. and of course the red-orange giant star Betelgeuse on his left shoulder.
Orion Constellation - this is what to look for!
Courtesy of Stellarium
Orion at around 04:30 in the morning mid-month. -Looking WEST
Courtesy of Stellarium
Lower down too you can see the brightest star in the sky Sirius - also known as the Dog Star
See if you can spot the Orion Nebula - the fuzzy blob just below the belt- and if you can have a look through binoculars it is spectacular.
....it won't look like this though! - my image of the Orion Nebula
.........but you'll get the general idea of the shape
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.