See Jupiter and Venus Cross Paths

What you'll see and learn

Jupiter and Venus are the two brightest planets in the sky. Each night starting in mid-February, you'll see the two planets get closer and closer to each other.

In the video below, learn how to do this activity and how it shows the 'race track' nature of the Solar System.

When and how you'll do this

This mission starts between mid-February to early-March, 2023. Look to the West between 30 - 60 minutes after sunset. 

To see changes over time, I recommend watching each clear night that you can.

On March 1st, Venus and Jupiter will be at their closest. Make sure to take a look!

What you'll need

No special equipment needed! You can do this with the naked eye.

If you to see changes over time, take a photo with a camera or a smartphone.

Where to do this

You can do this anywhere, even from a light-polluted city! Just make sure you have a clear view of the Western sky (a nice open park would work well!)

Go further

In the video above, I use a free app called Solar Walk Lite to demonstrate the Solar System. This is a fantastic app that kids love to play with and learn about how the Solar System works.

Prize to be Won

By submitting your mission info below, you'll be entered into a draw to win one 8x10" Mile End Moon prints.

Submit your mission info

Below, you'll see a green and red button to say if your mission was successful or not. Fill in the fields and submit what you saw:

• what day you watched this from
• where you saw it
• photos you took
• what you learned
• what questions you have

Even if the mission is unsuccessful for you, I'd still like to hear why. Maybe I can help you for the future!

Can't wait to see how y'all do!