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The graphic below color codes each of the four brightest planets that are consistently the best planets to view through a telescope. Use this chart to aid your events or general observing windows. These are the dates I’m following for my own sidewalk astronomy with some minor fluctuations depending on my current location.
- The START DATE of viewing represents when the planet is 10 degrees* above the horizon after sunset
- The END DATE of viewing represents when the planet is 15 degrees above the horizon after sunset, but moving into the glare of the Sun
*the start date for MARS is the date of its opposition
Please keep in mind that your local conditions and viewing horizon may impact these dates.
Feel free to download this graphic for printing and sharing.
