Hey Space Placers!
Bright Venus and Mercury Cast Their Light on the Sea
The two inner planets are close to one another with the Milky Way as a backdrop. Mercury is
much brighter in this pic than it will be tonight. Taken at sea.
CREDIT: Greg Redfern
If you have a clear view of the western horizon TONIGHT bright Venus and much dimmer Mercury will be at their closest, less than a half degree apart. This is the closest the two inner planets will be until 2033.
Your best bet is to look at the western horizon - one that is clear of trees and buildings - about 30 minutes or so after sunset. Using binoculars will help to find bright Venus first which will help you find dimmer Mercury right next to Venus. Mercury will be a far cry in brightness from earlier this month so you will really need binoculars to enhance your chances of spotting the Winged Messenger.
The two will be close for the next few nights as Mercury will be moving to the horizon and Venus rising higher in the sky.
Hope you have clear skies and a good view!
Sky Guy in VA
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