Eyes on the Sky: Mar 5 thru Mar 11

[magic612]

The big astronomical conjunction this month is the one involving Jupiter and Venus in the western sky. Though they reach conjunction (closest point) on only one evening, they spend a total of 6 evenings within 4 degrees of each other. Take a look through binoculars to spot both, or if your scope is out, note the superb double star that is nearby.

Also, elusive Mercury is rarely spotted by amateur astronomers because the window of opportunity to see it is so small - just after sunset or before sunrise. Early this week it is an easy find as it reaches greatest elongation. And don't miss the dance between the Moon, Mars and Saturn all week, best seen around midnight.