Today:
Very high in the southeast on the next clear evening, as darkness becomes complete after 10 o’clock, a bright, pale orange beacon can easily be found, the red-giant star Arcturus. This “red” giant shines brighter and hotter than most, making its color more yellow-ish orange. Arcturus is the brightest star we see through the Summer and early Fall.
Tuesday:
On this date in 1910, the Earth passed through the tail of Halley’s Comet, an event that spawned any number of reactions, from taking “Comet Pills” to ward off the noxious vapors, to predictions of the end of the world. The dangers were greatly exaggerated, with no measurable effects.
Wednesday:
Saturn continues to rise a few minutes earlier each night, breaking the eastern horizon just before 3 AM tomorrow morning, although not alone, the Waning Crescent Moon having risen 30 minutes before the ringed world. As they rise a bit higher by 4 o’clock, Venus adds to the display, just as the gathering twilight of the dawn starts to blossom.