CELESTIAL ITEMS REOCCUR FROM OUR VIEW IN THE NIGHT SKY. Whether it be the Complete Moon, a meteor shower, or simply the finest night to see Mars, we’re here to direct your eyes skyward and inform you to search for and appreciate the wonders of space right here on Earth.This week, we’re inviting you to marvel at the beauty of the planet Neptune as it appears at its brightest in the night sky on Friday.Neptune is the farthest known world from the Sun, some 2.7 billion miles from Earth. At such a distance, it takes Neptune 165 Earth years to orbit the Sun.The third most-massive planet of the Planetary system, Neptune is an ice huge formed by supersonic wind, a freezing cold and dark world. The planet has at least 5 main rings and 4 more ring arcs, and a minimum of 14 known moons.On Friday, September 11, this icy giant will be at its closest
distance to Earth. However that does not suggest too close. Neptune is
the only giant planet of the Solar System that can not be seen with the naked eye.But on Friday, you can observe Neptune in the night sky using just a set of regular binoculars, as the world comes in opposition to the Sun.A planet coming in opposition means that they are straight opposite to the Sun, completely aligning with the
Earth and the host star. As our world flies straight between the Sun and Neptune, the icy giant planet will be at its closest possible point to Earth, and it will stay at this fairly close distance for the remainder of the year.In regards to position, Neptune will be at about 180 degrees from the Sun in the sky.Neptune will increase from the East around sunset on Friday, appearing in front of the constellation Aquarius the Water Provider, and beside the star Phi Aquarii. But Neptune will appear much fainter than the star, since the world has to do with as faint as the dimmest star you can see in the night sky.Even with binoculars, you may still need to squint a little, or utilize a standard telescope to assist you see Neptune.
However the Moon remains in your favor: the Moon is currently a waning crescent, so the night sky will enable for optimal viewing. If you reside in a crowded city like New York, it is best to get as high up as possible in order to lessen light pollution.
So going on a balcony or rooftop is highly recommended.You also desire to shut out any light coming from screens of electronic gadgets or flashlights and permit your eyes to get accustomed to the darkness for around 30 minutes prior to you look up.Happy viewing!
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