July 2020

Phases of the Moon

Mercury

Mercury is on July 1 in the lower conjunction with the Sun, i.e., exactly between Sun and Earth and can not be observed. However, from July 20 it can be found on the morning north-eastern sky, about one hour before sunrise and about 5 degrees over horizon. The maximal height over horizon will be 7 degrees on July 27 and the planet's brightness will be -0.7 mag. Therefore you will need binoculars to find the planet.

Venus

From the beginning of July, Venus can be found on the morning sky, less than 10 degrees over the north-eastern horizon about one hour before sunrise. On July 7, its brightness (-4.7) mag will be the largest of this morning apparition. Its height over the horizon will increase and will reach 23 degrees on July 31.

Jupiter and Saturn

This July is the month of two giant planets. Jupiter is in the opposition on July 14 at (-2.8) mag, while Saturn reaches the opposition on July 20 at (+0.1) mag. At the opposition, any outer planet is on the line Sun-Earth-planet, so the distance between the Earth and an outer planet is minimal, and its brightness together with the angular diameter of the planet's disk are maximal. However, both planets are placed low over the horizon in the constellation Sagittarius. Nevertheless, try to observe both planets around the midnight in the second half of July. Even with the naked eye, it should be a nice view!