Welcome to the University of Texas Skywatchers' Report for May 29st to June 3rd.
The moon is at first quarter on Tuesday the 29th.
Mars rises at about 9:45 at mid-week and is shining brightly at magnitude 2. Venus rises at about 4 in the morning and is at magnitude 4.2
For an observing challenge, Pluto is a good target this summer for folks with access to fairly large telescopes. The small planet is at opposition on June 4th and is at magnitude 13.7. The best way to locate Pluto is to get a good finder chart and then photograph the area you think Pluto is in over several nights. When you compare the image you should see one of the objects shift against the background stars from night to night.
Summer public viewing on University campus telescopes will resume next week. Wednesday night viewing is held at Robert Lee Moore Hall and will begin at 9:00 p.m. The building is located at the southeast corner of Dean Keeton (formerly 26th street) and Speedway. Take the elevators to the 17th floor and follow the signs to the telescope.
Viewing at the Painter Hall telescope will be on Saturdays at 9:00 p.m. for the general public and on Fridays at 10:00 for UT students, faculty and staff. 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.
