Moon’s near side is its dark side

Believe it or not, the moon's near side is its dark side, thanks to a collection of low-lying lunar plains, solidified remnants of ancient seas of molten magma.

First quarter moon points to Saturn

The 1st quarter moon happens at the instant of east quadrature, when the moon is 90 degrees east of the sun. The September 27-28 1st quarter moon points to Saturn.

Moon next to Saturn on September 26, 2017

Look for Saturn near the moon on September 26. Would Saturn really float on water? Facts here.

Moon, Antares, Saturn on September 25, 2017

On September 25 and 26 , 2017, watch for the waxing crescent moon to swing to the north of the star Antares, then to the north of the planet Saturn.

Equinox sun rises due east, sets due west

At the equinox, the sun rises due east and sets due west, seen from around the globe. How can you visualize it? Illustrations here.

Equinox moon, Jupiter September 21-23, 2017

It'll be tough to catch the crescent moon and Jupiter from northerly latitudes. Much easier from southerly latitudes! Watch for these bright worlds, west after sunset.

Occultations galore September 18 2017

It'll be the first time since 2008 that the moon occults - or covers over - 3 planets in less than a day. For good measure, the moon also occults a bright star, Regulus.

Moon, Venus on September 17 and 18, 2017

They're the sky's 2 brightest objects after the sun, and they're near each other Monday and Tuesday mornings.

Mercury/Mars conjunction September 16, 2017

No matter where you live worldwide, an imaginary line from the moon through brilliant Venus - in the east before dawn - points in the general direction of Mercury and Mars.

Moon and Twins on September 15, 2017

Enjoy the moon and Gemini stars, Castor and Pollux, Friday and Saturday mornings. These 2 stars aren't really twins, but they're noticeably bright and close together on the sky's dome.