Dawn Encounter
The crescent Moon passes by the planets Venus, Mercury, and Jupiter in the dawn sky on April 30 and May 1. This view is about 30 to 40 minutes before sunrise, as the sky grows fairly bright. Venus will be the easiest to spot, but all three will require a clear horizon unobstructed by trees, buildings, or other objects. The view is best from the southern states, where the Moon and planets rise at a higher angle. [Tim Jones]









