Why your equinox sun rises and sets due east and west

How is it possible for an equinox sun to rise due east - and set due west - for everyone around the world? How can you visualize it? Illustrations here.

Mars is closest to the sun today

On September 16, 2018, Mars reaches perihelion, its closest point to the sun in its 2-year orbit. Mars' brightness in July and August - and a recent global dust storm on the planet - are both linked to this event.

See it! Jupiter, Venus and the young moon

Have you been watching Jupiter, Venus and the moon these past few evenings? Enjoy these photos from the EarthSky community. Thanks to all who shared!

Venus, she or it?

Are you interested in the famous 8-year cycle of Venus? The charts in this post - from astronomer Guy Ottewell - illustrate it. Also, weigh in on whether you think we should describe Venus as she or it!

Mars’ gala summer has ended

Mars - the world next-outward from Earth in orbit around the sun - has been brighter these past 2 months than since 2003. It's still bright, but will soon fade. Here are a few recent images of Mars at its best.

8 planets in 1 night, from Rome

"I have been thinking for decades about imaging 8 planets of our solar system in 1 night, from sunset to dawn. I imaged all of them from Rome, above the amazing monuments of the Eternal City."

See it! Moon sweeps past Mars

Mars is still at its best, and the moon has just swept past. Plus Saturn is nearby. Enjoy these photos from the EarthSky community.

Favorite Perseid meteor shower photos

2018 was an exceptional year for August's tried and true Perseid meteor shower.

Moonless nights ahead for the Perseids

It'll be a great year for the annual Perseid meteor shower. Don't miss this preview by Guy Ottewell, which has the best charts you'll find anywhere online.

Full moon eclipse and Mars

Mars was brighter in late July than it had been since 2003. Then - on July 27 - that very bright Mars appeared near the moon as it was undergoing a total eclipse.