Mars Closest To Earth

[EDDIE51]

From tonight and until 12th June Mars will be at it's closest to Earth for over 11 years. Get the telescopes out!
http://www.universetoday.com/129210/mars-closest-point-earth-11-years-today/

[mibn2cweus]

In the 27 July 2018 opposition, Mars will approach about 24% closer (reaching about 94% its maximum size as seen from Earth) than it did on 22 May.

http://www.nakedeyeplanets.com/mars-oppositions.htm

By the way, Saturn is at opposition on the 3rd with its rings nicely slanted for telescopic viewing.

[waterboatman]

I'd like a clear sky to have a wee squinty. :o}

[mibn2cweus]

Planets are especially difficult to see from far northern latitudes around the time of Summer Solstice when the Earth is tilted away from the ecliptic during evening hours. The best time to look for them is around 1am when they appear highest above the horizon.

[waterboatman]

Thanks for that. :o}

[mibn2cweus]

Saturn is about 15 degrees east of Mars around midnight.

[waterboatman]

Thanks again. :o}

[mibn2cweus]

New Moon this weekend . . . hopefully the sky will be clear then.