What’s Up – January 2010
Credit: ESA/MPS
Winter means less-cooperative skies over Mt. Shasta, but there’s great things to see on those chilly clear nights! Turn your attention to Mars, which reaches peak visibility this month. Mars is closest to Earth on January 27th.
Mars ranks as more of a rarity. Once every 26 months or so, the Red Planet makes a grand appearance. That time is now. Mars reaches opposition and peak visibility in January, when it rightfully claims the bulk of our planet-viewing attention.
— Astronomy Magazine
There’s a New Moon tonight (the 15th), and a Full Moon on the 30th. For a full list of sky happenings this month, as well as a handy printable map, download The Evening Sky Map (or click here for languages other than English; they have several!)
That’s all until next month — keep your eyes on the skies!
