From the November 2009 issue

Mars shines big and bright

January 2010: Once every 26 months or so, the Red Planet makes a grand appearance. That time is now.
By and | Published: November 23, 2009 | Last updated on May 18, 2023
January 2010 Red Planet
The Red Planet looms large this month as it comes close to Earth. A small ­telescope will reveal dusky surface markings and the icy north polar cap.
ESA/MPS

One of the great pleasures in observing the night sky is viewing the planets through a telescope. At almost any time of the year, either Jupiter or Saturn (or both) will be on display. Add to those the occasional appearances of Mercury and Venus, and there’s always something new to see.