Let's Find Mars and Saturn by Using the Moon!

Mars reaches opposition on May 22, presenting us with an opportunity to observe it. On May 31, Mars makes its closest approach to Earth. Shining at -2 magnitude, it is very bright. Saturn can be seen to the east of Mars. From May 21 to 23, we can observe the approximately full moon passing close to Mars and Saturn.

The bright, red 1st magnitude star Antares in the constellation Scorpio appears close to Mars. Antares means “Mars’s Opposite (Anti- Ares).” Like its name implies, Mars and Antares both shine bright and red, as if competing against each other. Try comparing the brightness and red colors of these two celestial objects.