By Melanie McQuigg (Y12)
This week offers excellent opportunities for observing the great dynamics of the Solar System, that showcase how movement can create unique viewing experiences. The dark nights following the New Moon provide the optimal conditions for spotting fainter objects. The highlight of the week is the opposition of Uranus, that places the Ice Giant in its brightest and closest position to Earth for the year. Additionally, you will also be able to see an amazing planetary duo and the details of our Moon.
Uranus at Opposition – 21st of November
On November 21st, the distant Ice Giant, Uranus reaches opposition, making it the best time of the year to observe it. This means that the planet will be directly opposite the Sun from the Earth’s perspective, making it look closest to us and fully lit up. You might need binoculars or a telescope to see it best, but even if you don’t have equipment, you should still be able to view it. It will be visible all night, rising at sunset and reaching its highest point at midnight in the Aries constellation
Great Evening Planetary Duo – 24th of November
Look towards the western sky just after sunset to see a beautiful cosmic pairing. The shining “Evening Star”, Venus, and the huge Jupiter will appear very close, creating a beautiful duo which will be easily visible to the naked eye. These planets, although separated by a vast distance, their alignment from our perspective will make them appear just degrees apart, making for a stunning photographic opportunity. This “closeness” is called a conjunction and happens about once a year with this duo.
First Quarter Moon – 27th of November
The Moon will reach its First Quarter phase on November 27th, illuminating exactly half of its visible disk. This will possibly be the best time to observe the Moon, as the dividing line between light and dark, called the terminator or the twilight zone, brings lunar features into sharper focus. The low angle of the sunlight creates dramatic, elongated shadows, causing craters, mountains, and valleys along the terminator to stand out with incredible detail and contrast. These details will be visible to the naked eye, but a pair of binoculars or a telescope would certainly improve your view.