Look west as the evening twilight gathers this week for a chance to spot the planets Venus and Saturn. The accompanying chart shows the view looking west from London at 18.10 GMT on 2 March.
Venus will be the brighter of the pair, dominating the sky at magnitude –4. Saturn will be fainter, at about magnitude 0.6, and will take a little longer to be visible as the sky darkens. It lies slightly higher and to the east of Venus. Unlike stars, both planets will shine steadily, without twinkling.
Over the course of the week, the pair will draw closer together. By 8 March, they will appear almost side by side in the deepening dusk. Although bright enough to be seen easily, even from urban locations, a clear western horizon will be important, as Saturn sinks lower as the week progresses.
Plan to begin your observation soon after sunset, watching for the planets to appear as twilight fades. If you watch on successive nights, you will see them edging noticeably closer.
Both planets glow by reflecting sunlight from their dense cloud decks. Venus appears brilliant white, while Saturn has more muted tones.
Observers in the southern hemisphere will also be able to enjoy the sight.
