Autumn Stars Moon and Planets.

Organised by : South Downs Planetarium

Now it is getting darker earlier in the evening, the two largest planets, Jupiter and Saturn, are visible low in the southern sky as soon as darkness falls. You might also catch a glimpse of Venus, low in the south-western sky at dusk. Of the two giant planets, Jupiter is much the brighter of the two and slightly further east than Saturn. Jupiter makes spectacular viewing. Its four largest moons and its stripy cloud belts are visible even with a small telescope. Saturns rings are almost wide open and beautifully displayed. The low altitude of the two giant planets means that one needs to view them as early as possible after dark, before they sink into the horizon haze.

The Moons ever changing phases are displayed as the Moon waxes and wanes from month to month. Full Moon is on 20th October and traditionally this is called the Hunters Moon. The Full Moon on 19th November is known as the Beaver Moon. When the Moon is new in early October, early November and early December, the absence of moonlight will enable you to have a clear view of the fainter autumn stars and constellation patterns. Find a dark site away from city lights for the best experience.

There is no better way to prepare you for your stargazing than to come to the Planetarium for a wonderful guided tour of some of the celestial wonders which are on view during the autumn months.