Planet Gazing

I've covered this subject before; nevertheless, a refresher is in order.

In the world of astronomy, the celestial phenomenon known as opposition occurs when the earth is directly between a planet and the sun.  

All of the planets in our solar system orbit the sun.  Under certain circumstances the earth the earth will find itself between the sun and another planet.  At that moment the planet is said to be in opposition.

Beginning tonight and tomorrow Saturn will be in opposition and as a consequence will be at its closest and brightest for all of 2023.  Even at its closest, this planet is till 746 million miles away.

Better yet, you will have the opportunity to view Saturn as it rises following sunset and sets in the western sky before sunrise.

Stellarium

Use this map to locate it - the view is to the southeast.  The brightest object in the sky is Jupiter and Saturn will be slightly higher and to the right. 

Binoculars will assist in viewing and if you have a telescope you might get a good look at Saturn's rings and possibly Titan; Saturn's largest moon.

Fingers-crossed for clear skies and no mosquitoes.