There’s been lots of talk about Mars at our meetings and in the blog since opposition is occurring tonight. But there is another interesting thing in the sky keeping Mars company tonight. The Moon will be full on Sat 30 Jan and it also will be at perigee. Like all orbits, the Moon’s is elliptical and gets closer or further away from the Earth throughout it’s orbit.

Link to larger image

As it turns out, this full Moon (Also known as the Wolf Full Moon), will be coinciding with its closest approach. This means it will be larger than usual (both actually and apparently). Try to catch the full Moon rise in the East just after sunset. Combined with the atmospheric effects, this full Moon should appear a lot larger than normal.

And as a bonus, tonight the Moon will be within 6 degrees of Mars (conjunction) – also at its closest to Earth for the next few years. Both are in the constellation Cancer. So you have a double treat. Here’s a chart to help you find them. These both could fit into the field of view of low power binoculars.

Link to larger chart

The forecast is calling for a fair amount of clouds over the next few days, but there should also be some good breaks. So keep an eye on the sky and get out when it opens up. Be sure to let us know about your observing activities.
(images and charts from SpaceWeather.com)