Aberdeen Backyard Astronomy

On Wednesday night, June 17th, check out the close approach of Venus to the sliver of Moon. You may also see a phenomenon known as “earthshine “ lighting up the shadow section of the Moon. While you’re at it, take a peek at Jupiter.

June Star Party at 12th Street Park on Friday, the 19th.
Dusk to 11pm.

Here are some phone/pad APPS that can assist you in your nightsky viewing. All are free with some paid ad ons.

Be sure to check out the Venus-Jupiter conjunction in the west after sunset. June 9th is peak, they will gradually separate over the next week. After the Sun and Moon, these two are the brightest objects in our northern skies.

Strong chance for Aurora Borealis tonight after 10pm.

Mercury is one of the most difficult planets to see with the naked eye because of its apparent closeness to the Sun in the sky. This makes it visible just before sunrise or just after sunset (depending on season) and low on the horizon. Coming up in mid June it will be at its greatest elongation, its greatest apparent distance from the Sun, making it easier to see. The image below shows its location on June 15th at 10pm, greatest elongation. The days before and after the 15th will also work. Venus and Jupiter can help with location. Binoculars can help. Find a clear open view of the western horizon, good luck.

Couple of cell phone photos through telescope from last night’s star party. Taken early in evening just after sunset, that’s why the sky is so blue. Can you see the rare “X & V” highlight that occurs along the terminator during quarter moon? The sky was too light to see Jupiter’s Galilean moons.

Last night at Star Party we watched the International Space Station cross the sky. Another opportunity tonight (Sunday). It will dance with Venus, Jupiter and the Moon again. Appears at 9:48 pm western sky, good luck.

Great night with stargazers at Saturday night’s viewing. Lots of new gazers, as well as, meeting new ones. See you on June 19th.