Stargazing: Jupiter, Aldebaran and Compet PanSTARRS
Share with others:
While you were out searching for Comet Pan-STARRS with your binoculars last week, the moon started a new cycle of phases through the ecliptic and zodiac. Our closest celestial neighbor sat right between Jupiter and Aldebaran night and forms an attractive triangle with the duo again tonight. Tonight's triangle, however, will be a little tighter than last month's because Jupiter has pulled to within 5 degrees of Aldebaran, its closest approach to the "eye of the bull" this year.
Look for the 7-day-old crescent moon high in the western sky tonight, 10 degrees above and to the left of brilliant Jupiter and 10 degrees directly above Aldebaran. The diameter of your fist held out at arm's length toward the horizon equals about 10 degrees.
Comet PanSTARRS is a little higher this week, but it has lost some of its brilliance. If you want to see the comet, you will need clear skies, a view clear of buildings or trees, and a good pair of binoculars.
First Published March 18, 2013 12:00 am
