Feb 9 - See Mars and Saturn

February 9 See Mars and Saturn by:

Before sunrise … Mars and Saturn You can see the moon sandwiched between Mars and Saturn Saturday morning. The moon will be closest to Saturn on Sunday. Mars brighter in 2018 than since 2003 In 2003, Mars was closer and brighter in our sky than in nearly 60,000 years. In 2018, Mars will be at its brightest since then! Start watching Mars now. Friday FAQ: What is radiocarbon dating? At a very steady rate, unstable carbon-14 gradually decays to carbon-12.  The ratio of these carbon isotopes reveals the ages of some of Earth's oldest inhabitants. Great Backyard Bird Count February 16–19 Scientists need your help counting birds for the 21st annual Great Backyard Bird Count. It is free and easy to participate. Find out how, here.

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Åhus tree  Stefan Nilsson took this photo last Sunday. He told us, "I try to shoot this tree once every year during this season ... The tree is on the beach where I live in Åhus, in the southeast part of Sweden."

Before sunrise … Moon and planets See if you can notice the difference in color between Mars and Saturn. Mars is red. Saturn is golden.  Submit your photo to EarthSky here! Did a friend forward EarthSkyNews to you? Click here to get your own subscription!

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