المملكة: Jeddah Astronomy: Mercury is at its easternmost elongation today and can be observed with the naked eye
Declared Mercury will appear above the western horizon directly at sunset, and its brightness will reach about (0.2), making it visible to the naked eye during the next week or so before it gradually disappears behind the glow of sunset.
The Elusive Planet
Abu Zahra explained that Mercury is known among astronomers as “the elusive planet,” as many people find it difficult to observe it despite its relative brightness, unlike other more planets. Clearly, like Venus, Mars, and Jupiter.
This is due – according to him – to the fact that Mercury’s orbit is internal to Earth’s orbit, which makes it remain very close to the sun in the sky, so it is only visible for short periods during sunrise or sunset, that is, only during periods of great elongation.
Abu Zahira pointed out that there are two types of elongations for Mercury: the first/eastern elongation (evening): when the planet is east of the sun and appears after its sunset, while the second/western elongation (morning): when it is west of the sun and is seen before it rises.
He added that the maximum elongation angle of Mercury ranges between 18 and 28 degrees east or west of the sun, and this difference is due to the fact that its orbit is not completely circular around the sun, but rather elliptical in shape.
The best time to observe the planet
The president of the association confirmed that the best time to view Mercury is immediately after sunset, stressing the importance of choosing an open place free of western obstacles such as buildings or trees, because the planet will be relatively low above the horizon and will set soon after. For a short period.
He also recommended using binoculars to aid observation, especially for beginners, while emphasizing avoiding directing the binoculars or eyes directly towards the sun before its complete sunset.
Abu Zahira concluded his speech by pointing out that whoever misses this opportunity will be able to see Mercury again during its westernmost morning elongation in early next December, when the planet will appear before sunrise on the eastern horizon.
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