Welcome to the University of Texas Skywatchers' Report for January 27th through February 2nd.
The moon is new on February 1st. This is also the beginning of the 4701 lunar year of the Chinese calendar, ushering in the year of the Ram.
Early risers on Monday morning were treated to a view of Mars alongside a thin waning crescent moon, with a bright Venus to their lower left. On Tuesday morning the moon will be alongside Venus, with Mars and its stellar look-alike Antares to the upper right.
The evening skies are still dominated by great views of Saturn and Jupiter. Jupiter reaches opposition on February 2nd, so it will rise at sunset and be visible all night long.
The telescope at Robert Lee Moore Hall is open to the public on Wednesday nights starting at 7:00 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 telescope at Painter hall is open on Fridays for UT students, faculty and staff from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. and Saturdays are open to the general public from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Painter Hall is located on 24th street about half way between Speedway and Guadalupe.
All events are free and open to all ages and no reservations are required. Observing events are weather permitting.
Please note that star party times change throughout the year. Please call this recording to check times before planning a visit to the telescopes.
Thank you for calling the University of Texas Skywatchers' Report.
