Mars and Saturn at dusk The charming planet Saturn, and the Red
Planet (where Curiosity is doing its thing) are visible soon
after sunset high up in the west. The two planets form a
noticeable triangle with Spica (alpha Virginis). In the
accompanying photograph, by Kos Coronaios, the triangle is near
the top of the frame. The right-most object is Saturn, with Mars
lowest down. Also beautifully shown is the zodiacal light, a
triangle of soft light centred more or less on where the Sun is
(below the horizon) and narrowing upwards towards the planetary
pair. This soft glow, aligned with the ecliptic, is the light
scattered off dust within our solar system. Compare this image
with the one taken on 2012 August 18; note the position of Mars.
Find out more: Southern Sky Highlights for 2012 nothing more to
see. please move along.