Welcome to the University of Texas Skywatchers' Report for December 3rd to 9th .
The moon is at third quarter on Friday the 7th.
Saturn reaches opposition on Monday the 3rd so it will be visible all night. It rises a little after 5 in the evening at mid-week.
Jupiter rises around 7:30 p.m. at mid-week. Mars is still in the south-southwest at sunset.
Last week's planned launch of the space shuttle Endeavour was pushed back to this week to give astronauts on board the International Space Station time to lock down a Russian supply ship which failed to completely latch to the station. The shuttle will carry the fourth station crew into orbit and return the third crew to earth, as well as deliver another module.
Wednesday night star parties at Robert Lee Moore Hall start at 7 p.m. The building is located on the southeast corner of Dean Keeton (formerly 26th street) and Speedway. Take the elevator to the 17th floor and follow the signs to the telescope.
Painter Hall public viewing is on Saturday evening and starts at 7 p.m. Friday nights are open to UT students, faculty and staff at 7 p.m. The building is located on 24th street about halfway between Speedway and Guadalupe.
This will be the final week of public star parties for the fall semester. Viewing will resume in January.
All events are free and open to all ages and no reservations are required. Observing events are weather permitting.
Thank you for calling the University of Texas Skywatchers' report.
