Mars

[DMC]

Just wondering when Mars will be viewable in the night sky?

[dweller25]

Mid August - 5am - due East but low down.

[virtualpilot45]

I'm planning on having a go at the end of September

[DMC]

Thanks David. Will it rise higher later in the year?

[dweller25]

Yes - and with your 200P dob you will see ....

1. The polar cap shrinking as Mars approaches summer.

2. Surface details such as Syrtis Major.

3. Cloud formations on the limb of Mars.

[Lurker]

Turn Left at Orion said it's available March 2012?

[tom33pr]

Why won't you download Stellarium - it'll keep you well informed.

[DMC]

Thanks guys, Will download Stellarium and have a play with it. Can't wait to see the red planet.

[JamesF]

If you're desperate, just before sunrise on April 30th there's a fair chunk of the solar system on the eastern horizon IIRC. From memory there should be a waning crescent moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars and Jupiter low on the horizon, with Uranus higher in the sky at the same time.

James

[junior]

Sounds like a very good night to be out!!

[yeti monster]

I'm looking foward to seeing the 'gang', all loitering around in the dawn sky.