This column usually highlights astronomical events that can be viewed with the naked eye. However, there are some celestial treats that inexpensive, hand-held binoculars can unveil to the stargazer. September's planetary show above the western horizon is one of these occasions when binoculars will add to the sky watcher's viewing pleasure.

For the first few weeks of September, Venus, Mercury and Mars form a tight triangle just above the west-southwestern horizon. Only Venus, shining at magnitude --3.8, is visible without an optical aid. Mercury will drift below the horizon later in September, and Mars will disappear in October. Venus will be the lone beacon in the west until it's joined by Jupiter in November.

This week, with binoculars in hand, stargazers can watch a very thin crescent moon pass the trio right after sunset in early twilight. Tonight, the thin crescent will sit on the western horizon, 5 degrees to the lower left of Venus. Mercury lies halfway between the pair, and Mars sits just above Mercury.