Astronomer Guy Ottewell has developed a novel way of picturing ourselves riding on Earth, orbiting the sun. See those past-and-future Earths as we look backward at the old year – and forward into the new – here.

At the December solstice, Earth arrives at the 4th of the year’s 4 cardinal points.

Venus and the bright star Spica have been near each other for some days, and will remain so for a few days longer. We’re now in the middle of the best time to see them near each other in the east before sunup.

Venus will sweep near the sun in our sky (inferior conjunction) on October 26. Astronomer Guy Ottewell uses his great skill at illustration to compare this passage of Venus with the last one, and the next one.

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!

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.

More details and more charts, from Guy Ottewell.

Best insights – and best charts – anywhere online about Mars’ wonderful July 2018 opposition and meet-up with the moon on the dome of Earth’s sky.

Beloved astronomer Guy Ottewell announces his newest book.