2011 Skywatching Guide: Planets in the Solar System

2011 Skywatching Guide: Planets in the Solar System

The planets of our solar system are at tomes some of the most rewarding and simplest skywatching targets to spot, if you know when and where to look. Here's a look at how to observe the planets of the solar system in 2011: Tip: Astronomers measure distances in…

Rare sight: Mercury to meet Mars at dawn on Tuesday

Rare sight: Mercury to meet Mars at dawn on Tuesday

Skywatchers set your alarm clocks: On Tuesday morning (April 19), Mercury will appear to have a close encounter with Mars. In reality, the two planets will actually be separated by about 161 million miles (259 million kilometers), but in Earth’s sky they will…