September Astronomy

 

Venus will mathematically reach its greatest illuminated extent on Friday, September 18.  Nevertheless, it is still near its absolute brightest in our sky tonight. It will be piercingly bright. The moon is also at apogee, its farthest point from Earth.

Consequently, we’re also still seeing a fairly large fraction of its day side. It’s that combination – relative nearness and relatively big crescent – that makes Venus the most brilliant object in our sky. 

Because Venus is so bright, you can even attempt to observe it during daytime. Stand in the shadow of a building to completely block the sun, and carefully scan the clear blue sky roughly 38 degrees to the east (or to the left) of the hidden sun's position to spot the planet's brilliant white pinpoint of light.

I dare you. 

No matter where you are on Earth, watch for Venus as the blazing object in the west after sunset.