What’s Up – February 2010
In February, there will be many things to look at in the night sky!
Several major planets, and at least one minor one (the asteroid Vesta), give solar system observers plenty of targets for a night under the stars. The two brightest objects – Venus and Jupiter – pass close to each other low in evening twilight in mid-February.
Mars and Saturn rule the sky from nearly dusk until dawn. The Red Planet reached its peak in January and has now begun to dim, although it still ranks among the sky’s brightest points of light.
The ringed planet will peak in March and looks spectacular through a telescope. If you last through the night or simply get up at dawn, you’ll spot Mercury low in the southeast in early February.
— Astronomy Magazine
Also, the space shuttle will head for the International Space Station on Sunday, and both can be tracked and viewed at Heavens-Above.com (link is set for Mt. Shasta’s location and elevation.)
February 13th is the next New Moon, with a Full Moon on the 28th. 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.)
That’s all until next month — keep your eyes on the skies!
