February 19, 2008
STARGAZING:
Eclipsed Moon, Saturn to Feature in Celestial Show (Alicia Chang, 2/19/08, Associated Press)
The last total lunar eclipse until 2010 occurs Wednesday night, with cameo appearances by Saturn and the bright star Regulus on either side of the veiled full moon.Posted by Orrin Judd at February 19, 2008 6:07 PMSkywatchers viewing through a telescope will have the added treat of seeing Saturn's handsome rings. Weather permitting, the total eclipse can be seen from North and South America. People in Europe and Africa will be able to see it high in the sky before dawn on Thursday.
As the moonlight dims -- it won't go totally dark -- Saturn and Regulus will pop out and sandwich the moon. Regulus is the brightest star in the constellation Leo.
Comments
These are always a treat for the unitiated sky watcher. No equipment needed...just go outside and look up. Of course, if you have a telescope, Saturn sitting next to the eclipsed moon will be a special treat.
Posted by: Foos at February 19, 2008 9:02 PM