Look in the morning sky to see brilliant Venus, Saturn, and the Moon close together.
credit: M. Bakich/TheSKY software
Key Takeaways:
- Astronomy magazine promotes a planetary conjunction observable on April 21st.
- Venus, Mercury, and Saturn will appear in close proximity in the eastern sky during the early morning hours.
- Observation is possible with the unaided eye, though binoculars enhance visibility.
- While the planetary grouping will be visible for several weeks, April 21st marks the date of closest apparent proximity.
In this episode, Astronomy magazine Editor Dave Eicher invites you to head out and view a close grouping of planets in the early morning hours of April 21. That morning, you’ll be able to see Venus, Mercury, and Saturn low in the east. You won’t need a telescope or binoculars to view them, just use your eyes. That said, binoculars will provide a pleasing view. The trio will be in the morning sky for several weeks, but this date is when they’re closest.
