5 Planets Will Be Visible to The Naked Eye This Weekend in Maine
I was feeling pretty bummed out that I didn't get outside in time to see the NEOWISE comet this week. I did however get to see plenty of pictures from my friends on Facebook that actually remembered to go outside and look for it. By the time I made it outdoors to check for it I was well outside the time-frame for our area.
Well, if you're like me and missed out on this once in 6,000 years event, there will still be another cool interstellar event happening this weekend. In the early morning hours of this Sunday (7-19-20) about 45 minutes before sunrise, you will be able to see 5 different planets plus the moon all at the same time with the naked eye.
According to astronomer Dr. Jeffrey Hunt, the planets include Mercury, Venus, Mars Jupiter and Saturn. In addition, you'll also be able to see the crescent moon, too. He says that finding a spot with clear horizons in the east-northeast and the southwest.
He goes on to explain that Jupiter will be seen in the southwestern sky and you'll be able to see Saturn above Jupiter and over to the right. Mars will be visible in the the southeastern horizon and Venus will be over in the eastern sky. When you see the moon, look slightly to the right and you should be able to see Mercury.
Probably the best part about this weekend's planetary event is that you won't need binoculars or even a telescope to see any of this. With that being said, don't wind up like me this past weekend and forget about it. Set a reminder on your phone- heck, set an alarm if you have to!
And as always, share any cool pics or video that you get with us through the 92 Moose app.