Have you noticed the two bright “stars” in the western skies this month?
They are not stars, rather they are the planets Jupiter and Venus.
Venus is the brighter of the two and Jupiter is higher in the sky.
The two planets have been moving closer to each other for the past month but on Wednesday evening they will be joined by the Moon.
The forecast is looking good for an opportunity to watch this conjunction of Venus, Jupiter, and the Moon.
The Sun will be setting about 6:08 Wednesday evening and by 6:30 p.m. we should be able to see a small, thin, crescent Moon in the western sky.
Look to the right of the Moon and you will see Jupiter. Jupiter will be less than 1 degree away from the Moon.
A degree is about the diameter of two Moons so the two will be close together.
Then look for a brighter Venus beneath the Moon.
The Moon will only be near Jupiter for one night.
After Wednesday evening the Moon will be higher in the sky but that does not mean the planetary conjunction of Venus and Jupiter is over. Keep watching them for a week and on March 1, Jupiter and Venus, will be setting side by side. They will be separated by about half of a degree, the same diameter of the Moon.
Planetary conjunctions between Jupiter and Venus take place about every 13 months.
This one will be easy, and safe to watch. All that is needed is a clear sky, a good open view of the western sky, and your eyes. If you have binoculars then do take them out with you. They will add to the beauty of this celestial wonder.
(Note: Mike Myer, Humboldt, is an avid stargazer and frequently shares information about upcoming celestial sights.)
