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    Adrian Dening's Stars Over Somerset

    Friday, 29 November 2024 19:39

    Monday 2nd to Sunday 8th December 2024

     

    Take a look towards the south around 5pm on Thursday 5th to see a very bright magnitude -4.0 Venus setting below the horizon.  To the left of Venus, you will find a waxing crescent Moon.

    You'll notice that the crescent shape, where sunlight is illuminating the lunar surface, is on the right.  This tells us that our celestial neighbour is "waxing", or in other words, heading towards the Full Moon on 15th December.  After the Full Moon, it is said to be "waning" and because of the angles between us, the Sun and Moon, the illuminated part will then appear to be on the left side of the Moon's surface.

    If you look towards the south again at 5pm on Sunday 8th, Venus will be setting below the horizon once more, while further to the left and a bit higher in the sky, a magnitude +1.0 Saturn will also be easy to spot.  At the same time, a first quarter Moon will only be a few degrees away from Saturn.  Again, it will be the right hand side of the Moon's surface that is illuminated.

    When you've finished observing them, a magnitude -2.0 Jupiter will be rising above the horizon to the east north east.  Above and to the left of Jupiter is the bright star Capella, while to the right you can find the Pleiades open cluster of stars.  All of these targets are easy "naked eye" objects, so no telescope or binoculars required!

    My next astronomy talk and star party at the Ham Hill Visitor Centre is taking place at 7pm on Friday 6th December.  The last one filled very quickly, so if you'd like to come along, it is essential to reserve a place by contacting the Ranger's Office on 07973 887129.

    www.starsoversomerset.com

    Screenshots courtesy of Stellarium

    Copyright Adrian Dening and Radio Ninesprings 2024

     

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