Calling all astronomy enthusiasts in India! This is your chance to spot the elusive planet Mercury in the morning sky.
On May 9th, 2024, Mercury reaches its greatest western elongation. This means it's at its farthest angular distance from the Sun, making it much easier to observe before sunrise.
Here's what you need to know.
When to Look: Look for Mercury low in the eastern horizon just before dawn, ideally between late April and mid-May.
Where to Look: Face east and look for a faint, yellowish dot. Binoculars are highly recommended for a better view.
Visibility: Mercury will be at its brightest at about magnitude -0.4, but it will still be quite faint due to its proximity to the horizon and the twilight.
Tips for Viewing:
1) Find a location with an unobstructed eastern horizon, away from city lights.
2) Get up early! The earlier you look, the higher Mercury will be in the sky, offering a better view.
3) Use binoculars to magnify the faint planet.
Be patient! Catching a glimpse of Mercury can be challenging, so don't get discouraged if you don't see it right away.
This is a great opportunity to see the solar system's smallest planet. So, don't miss out!
