There has been a cluster of planets in the eastern sky before dawn much of October. It culminates this last week of the month with a triangle formation. Venus has been the brightest object in the sky and is joined by Jupiter and Mars. These are not actually close together, but appear that way from our perspective. They will look so close this week, that they should all fit within the view of binoculars or a telescope. Use a camera with strong lens, and we have the setting for spectacular photos. So while this is something we all can view without special equipment or need to travel far away from urban lights (weather permitting), this is a call to action for photographers to get the perfect shot! See the NASA video below for more details.
When and where to look?
October 24 through 31st, 2015: In the east, about an hour before sunrise! Luckily that is not too early this time of year. So if you can plan around 6:30 AM you should get to see it. The sky will gradually brighten but if the sky is clear and you have a clear view to your east it will be worth it.
Sunrise in Baltimore:
- Mon Oct 26 is 7:28 AM
- Sat Oct 31 is 7:33 AM
Monday, Oct 26 will be the first time Jupiter appears higher than Venus. Each day, the triangle will change but remain close. If you have binoculars and can steady your hands, you might even be able to see 3 or 4 of the moons of Jupiter. Of course, we need the weather to cooperate and with a storm arriving Tuesday and Wednesday, we may miss a few days. Check out this NASA video for more details. Also, if you miss this showing, there are two days in early November when the crescent moon joins the party.
NASA Video
The November Sky Show
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