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HOME ASTRONOMY NATIONAL WEATHER SATELLITE RADAR FORECAST MODELS Contact  CALENDAR 2012 Available Now |
As we change months, a few planets that have afforded us great viewing the past months will slip from view, while other planets will become more visible. Mercury rises about 45 minutes before sunrise as the month opens: plus, being so close to the sun at this time of year makes it difficult to see. The best time to try to view Mercury is the first half of the month, as by months end it will be lost in the sun's glare. The moon is Full on Saturday, May 5. Look for Mars high overhead to open the month after sunset. If you have a telescope, you'll be afforded a better glimpse of the tiny red planet. The last Quarter moon is Saturday, May 12. Jupiter rises after sunrise and sets shortly after sunset. You'll need a clear view even to catch a glimpse of the giant planet. By months end, Jupiter is rising before sunrise as it becomes a morning star. You'll really need to wait until next month to get a better view of Jupiter in the morning hours. The moon is New on Sunday, May 20. Saturn is an evening planet and will be easily visible after sunset. Look for the ringed planet high overhead at midnight by midmonth. The first Quarter moon is Monday, May 28. Venus continues to dominate the evening sky at sunset. It will be the brightest object in the western sky this month. If you have a telescope, Venus will appear much like a crescent moon in shape. Look for Venus near the crescent moon on Wednesday, May 23. Other notable highlights include: Saturday, May 5: Perigee: Moon closest to Earth. Saturday, May 19: Apogee: Moon furthest from Earth. Morning Planets: Mercury (twilight, 1-20), Jupiter (28-31) Evening Planets: Venus, Mars, Saturn
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