Be scanning the skies this evening for a glimpse of Saturn. This is the closest it's come to Earth (perigee) in 30 years. In addition, the rings are tilted toward the earth, offering an incredible view. If you have binoculars or a telescope, this is a prime viewing period, but even with the naked eye it will be spectacular.

Saturn rises this evening at sunset in the northeast, and sets around sunrise in the northwest, depending on your location. You can find it close to the constellation Orion, in the constellation of Taurus. It will appear as a huge gold "star".

I wonder how many people will be confusing it with the Star of Bethlehem? ;)

Happy stargazing!

Cheers,
-Saz

P.S. In case you miss it, here is a page with a spectacular picture of the 6th planet.

[ 12-17-2002, 03:34 PM: Message edited by: Sazerac ]

Sounds like a little star gazing is in order for tonight. [img]smile.gif[/img]

Sweet! Will I be able to see it in the northwest US?

What about Canada?

Its visible now here, except its not because were in a city with too many lights and I can only see 7 stars from orion itself and half a dozen others in the same region and Im not sure where Taurus is anyway. I can probly see saturn as well, but identifying it is hard. And the moon isnt that far away, dosent help matters.

It should be visible most places in the northern hemisphere.

Well, I am out in Podunk, so the sight should be pretty spectacular.

It should be visible from everywhere in the world except A) Antarctica or B) any place with dense cloud cover. ;)

Cheers,
-Sazerac

Thanks Saz! I'll have to take a look in a few hours when it's a little bit darker and hopefully a little less cloudy.

Isn't Podunk between Ennis and Ferris? :D

Ooooh, glad I won't have to move to Podunk, though! ;) :D

Isn't Podunk between Ennis and Ferris? :D </font>[/QUOTE]Nope, in my case, Podunk is between Terrell and Canton. Definitely not in Waxahachie!

coolio! I can't wait to see it! I hope cuba is just at the right angle to catch a glimpse! [img]tongue.gif[/img]