FreeLists / az-observing / [AZ-Observing] Venus and Jupiter in morning sky

[Andrew Cooper <acooper@xxxxxxxxx>]

Set the alarm somewhat early this morning to set up the 6"RFT in the 
backyard.  I was at first greeted by two glowing spots of cloud as a 
series of cirrus clouds drifted through.  But there were good gaps and 
the clear view was sublime in the deep blue of the dawn.  Both planets 
were easily visible with a 35mm eyepiece, but that gives  three degree 
field in the RFT.  Stepping up to a 12mm eyepiece both planets just fit 
in the field at either side but as disks now, a gibbous Venus and at the 
other side of the field Jupiter and retinue.  Before breaking down I 
turned the scope to the last quarter moon as well  for a view this night 
owl doesn't often see.

This is the second time I have seem Jupiter and Saturn in the eyepiece 
at the same time.  The last was a few years back in the evening sky.  
That time we were set up in a schoolyard and shared the unique view with 
the students at a school wide star party.  I wonder how often these 
events occur?

Andrew

--
See message header for info on list archives or unsubscribing, and please 
send personal replies to the author, not the list.