Latest articles by Geoff Gaherty
Full Moon of January 2010: What You Can See
The biggest full moon of 2010 occurs tonight. What you can see and how best to view the moon.
Observing the Evening Sky in Summer's Twilight Zone
What is twilight? Scientists have specific definitions for three types of twilight, and many people in the U.S. and Canada live in twilight through much of the summer.
Mercury Transit of the Sun on May 9: How to See It and What to Expect
On Monday (May 9), you will have an opportunity to witness one of the rarest astronomical events: a transit of Mercury across the face of the sun. Here's what to expect.
Saturn at Opposition: See the Ringed Planet at Its Best This Friday
This Friday, June 3, Saturn reaches opposition to the sun. Directly opposite the sun in the sky, Saturn rises as the sun sets and sets as the sun rises, remaining visible all night.
Mars Makes Closest Approach to Earth in 11 Years on May 30
On May 30, Mars will come within 46.8 million miles (75.3 million kilometers) of Earth — closer than the Red Planet has been since 2005. Here's what to expect.
What Lunar Luck! Friday the 13th Is Prime Moon Viewing Time
When is the best time to look at the moon? Check out the first and last quarter for a vivid view.
Best Night Sky Events of May 2016 (Stargazing Maps)
See what's up in the night sky for May 2016, including stargazing events and the moon's phases, in this Space.com gallery courtesy of Starry Night Software.
Are You Ready for the Transit of Mercury? Rare Event Occurs in May
Start preparing now for one of the major astronomical events of 2016: On May 9, Mercury will pass across the face of the sun.
Best Night Sky Events of April 2016 (Stargazing Maps)
See what's up in the night sky for April 2016, including stargazing events and the moon's phases, in this Space.com gallery courtesy of Starry Night Software.
Best Night Sky Events of March 2016 (Stargazing Maps)
See what's up in the night sky for March 2016, including stargazing events and the moon's phases, in this Space.com gallery courtesy of Starry Night Software.
Zodiacal Light: How to See the Mysterious Glow
Here's how to spot the faint zodiacal light, the mysterious glow caused by millions of particles left over from the solar system's formation.
High in the Sky: How to Spot 'Circumpolar' Constellations
Here's how to see the circumpolar constellations, such as the Great Bear, which are always with us.
February's Last-Quarter Moon: Why It's Missing
As you gaze at the first-quarter moon this week, you may wonder when the last-quarter moon will occur this month. But there won't be one, if you live in North or South America.
