Welcome to the University of Texas Skywatchers' Report for July 26th through August 1st.
The second full moon in the month of July occurs on Saturday the 31st. The second full moon in a month is often referred to as a Blue Moon.
Jupiter is still bright in the west at sundown, but is getting quite low by the end of twilight, setting at about 10:45 this week.
Mercury is at greatest eastern elongation and at its brightest on Monday the 26th. Look for it low in the west at sunset.
Early risers can catch a very bright Venus high in the east before sunrise. The winter evening constellation of Orion the Hunter is below and to the right of Venus. Saturn is now peaking over the eastern horizon as morning twilight begins.
For more skywatching tips for the week, check out stardate.org
The telescope at Robert Lee Moore Hall is open on Wednesdays from 9 to 11 p.m. RLM is located on the southeast corner of Dean Keeton and Speedway. Take the elevators to the 17th floor and follow the signs to the telescope.
The Painter Hall telescope is open to the public on Fridays from 9 to 10 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 to 11 p.m. Painter Hall is located on 24th street about halfway between Speedway and Guadalupe.
All events are free and open to all ages and no reservations are required. Observing events are weather permitting. Please call 232-4265 for weather cancellation information about 30 minutes before the star party start time. Note that star party times and availability change throughout the year. Please call this recording before planning a visit to the telescopes.
Thank you for calling the University of Texas Skywatchers' Report.
