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Moon, Jupiter, Spica January 18-20 before dawn
The moon is sweeping past Jupiter now, but - if you know where to look - you can find all 5 bright planets on these January 2017 nights. Charts and info here.
January 19, 2017
Spot elusive Mercury before dawn
On January 19, 2017, Mercury will be at greatest elongation. That means it's now nearly at its farthest from the sun on our sky's dome for this morning apparition. Watch for it!
January 17, 2017
Venus milestone on January 12
At greatest elongation on January 12, 2017, Venus is as far from the sun as it will be for this evening apparition.
January 12, 2017
When does full moon happen for you?
Full moon is January 12, 2017 at 11:34 UTC. Fullest moon for you on the night of January 11 if you're in the Americas, and on January 12 if you're in Asia. In between? Either night will do!
January 11, 2017
Moon in 2017
Everything you want to know about the moon in 2017 - including phases, cycles, eclipses and supermoons - from world-renowned astronomer Fred Espenak.
January 10, 2017
Moon, Aldebaran, Pleiades on January 8
Pleiades star cluster - and bright star Aldebaran - are both in Taurus the Bull. If you can't see them near tonight's moon, break out the binoculars!
January 8, 2017
Moon, Venus and Mars after sunset
The dazzling “star” near the waxing moon on January 1, 2 and 3, 2017 is Venus. Mars is also along a line between the sunset location on your horizon and the moon and Venus in your sky.
January 1, 2017
Venus and Mars point to Neptune
Imaginary line from Venus through Mars points to Neptune in late December 2016. Comet 45P/Honda-Mrkos-Pajdusakova in this part of sky, too, but - like Neptune - requires optical aid.
December 29, 2016
Moon, Antares and Saturn December 26
Up for a sky watching challenge? Try catching the star Antares and the planet Saturn near the old waning crescent moon before sunrise on December 26 and 27.
December 25, 2016
Moon, Jupiter, Spica on December 23
Waning crescent moon meets dazzling planet Jupiter and Spica, brightest star in Virgo the Maiden, before dawn. Watch Spica and Jupiter near each other throughout 2017.
December 22, 2016
