If you’re a lover of astronomy, planets and in particular star gazing, then Goa is the place to visit. This June, The capital city, Panjim will witness four planets clearly. One almost every night!
Jupiter the brightest Star
Jupiter is impossible to miss on these June evenings if you are star gazing. The planet lights up the sky almost immediately after sunset. Jupiter is the fourth brightest celestial object after the sun, moon and Venus. If you have binoculars or a telescope, it’s fairly easy to see Jupiter’s four major moons, which look like pin pricks of light on or near the same plane.
Mars, Dusk till Dawn
Mars is almost as bright as Jupiter at the beginning of this month, but fades quickly over the 30 days. It was at its brightest on May 22. However it will continue to shine bright till mid June. By the end of this month, you will notice the gradual fade.
Saturn and the sky’s dome
Here’s some good news. Mars is neighbouring another planet on the sky’s dome. Look out for Mars and you can spot Saturn easily. Saturn, the farthest world that you can easily view with the eye alone, appears golden in color. It shines with a steady light. Binoculars don’t reveal Saturn’s gorgeous rings, for that, you need a small telescope. But binoculars will enhance Saturn’s golden color. The planet is highest up for the night. Although it shines on par with the sky’s brightest stars, its brilliance can’t match that of Mars.
Mercury in predawn sky
The first couple of weeks in June will feature a grand time for catching Mercury before sunrise in the predawn sky. It’ll be more of a challenge to spot Mercury as a morning “star” at dawn from mid-northern latitudes, for this binoculars come in handy. According to this site, Mercury can be seen at 4.37 am.
Well, warm up that coffee and set your telescope. I guarantee you will have a mesmerising night.
