This Week in Astronomy with Dave Eicher: Mercury in the evening sky

If you’ve never seen the planet closest to the Sun, now’s the time.
By | Published: October 27, 2025

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Guidance is provided for observing the planet Mercury.
  • Optimal viewing is specified as shortly after sunset, with Mercury positioned low in the western sky.
  • Binoculars are recommended as an aid, requiring a deliberate and patient scan of the horizon region.
  • This observational advice is presented by *Astronomy magazine* Editor Emeritus Dave Eicher.
Key takeaways sponsored by The Space Store

In this episode, Astronomy magazine Editor Emeritus Dave Eicher invites you to head out in the evening shortly after sunset to search for Mercury. The planet never strays far from the Sun, so it will be low in the western sky. Use binoculars and take your time as you scan the region near the horizon. Good luck!

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