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Venus greatest distance from the sun August 14-15, 2026
In 2026, look for Venus after sunset! It's high in the August evening sky for all to see. It'll be brightest in the evening sky on September 22.
August 9, 2026
The 2nd eclipse season of 2026 is underway
One of the many noticeable cycles in the heavens is an eclipse season. The 2nd eclipse season of 2026 starts with a total solar eclipse on August 12.
August 7, 2026
Planet-observing tips: Here’s how to tour the solar system
Get our top tips for planet-observing, from the innermost and elusive Mercury out to faint blue Neptune and everything in between. Top tips here!
July 31, 2026
What are star trails, and how do I photograph them?
Star trails are long-exposure photographs of stars taken as Earth turns, resulting in streaks of light across the sky. Here's how to photograph star trails.
July 30, 2026
What is the Milky Way? It’s our home galaxy
When someone says "Milky Way," do you think of the starry pathway across our sky, or of the great pinwheel-shaped galaxy in space? Both are correct!
July 26, 2026
M6 and M7: Open star clusters in the Scorpion’s Tail
M6 and M7 are star clusters near Scorpius’ stinger. Under a dark sky, these loose groups of stars can be a stunning sight.
July 23, 2026
June solstice 2027: Here’s all you need to know
The June solstice happens today, June 21, 2027. It's the longest day for the Northern Hemisphere and the shortest day for the Southern Hemisphere.
July 20, 2026
Look for Mercury farthest from the morning sun this week
Mercury will reach its greatest elongation - greatest distance from the sunrise - on November 21, 2026. Look east at dawn. Bright Venus will be nearby.
July 17, 2026
2026 Ursid meteor shower: All you need to know
The 2026 Ursid meteor shower competes with moonlight and is best seen overnight from the evening of Dec 21 through the dawn of Dec 22, and best before sunrise.
July 15, 2026
We fly between Jupiter and the sun February 11
Giant Jupiter is closest to Earth for 2027 on February 10. Then Earth will fly between the sun and Jupiter - bringing Jupiter to opposition - on February 11.
July 10, 2026
