Venus can be seen in the western sky after sunset in the constellation Pisces (the Fishes). Venus appears higher and grows brighter all month. Venus looks like a very bright white star.

Venus can be seen as the “Evening Star” all month in the southwestern sky moving from the constellation Capricornus (the SeaGoat), through Aquarius (the Water-Bearer).

Merrillville Community Planetarium has public shows scheduled for April, July, and October. Merrillville Adult Education is offering a Skygazing class on Monday nights from March 21st to April 30th.

Jupiter and Venus rule the early evening sky in the winter months. Mars and Saturn soon follow.

Venus can be seen after sunset low in the southwestern sky passing from Sagittarius (the Archer) into Capricornus (the Sea Goat). Venus appears higher every night.

The longest night of the year and a moonless night are great conditions for the Ursid meteor shower. It’s visible all night and peaks on December 22nd.

Venus can be seen for a short time after sunset in the southwestern sky in the constellation Scorpius (the Scorpion). Venus is can be seen for almost 2 hours before the end of November.

Mercury can be seen in the western sky after sunset by the end of October moving into the constellation Libra (the Scales). Mercury will be visible for only a half-hour.

Mercury can be seen very low in the west just after sunset in July and early August moving through the constellations Gemini (the Twins), Cancer (the Crab), and Leo (the Lion).

Saturn can be seen in the southeastern sky after sunset in the constellation Virgo (the Maiden), shining brighter than its brightest star Spica, located about 15º southeast of Saturn.