05 July 2007
Venus and Saturn in the Western Evening Sky
Photo by Aymen Ibrahem, Senior Astronomy Specialist
The photo was taken on Friday, 29 June 2007.
Venus and Saturn continue to dazzle skywatchers, in the evening western sky. Mr. Aymen Ibrahem, BA Senior Astronomy Specialist, observed the wonderful conjunction for over a week, producing new interesting photos.
On 1 July 2007, the two planets were only about 2/3° apart. They were a spectacular sight in a small telescope of magnification of 50x, or less.
Venus during Evening Twilight
Photo by Aymen Ibrahem, Senior Astronomy Specialist
"It was one of the most beautiful celestial phenomena I have ever observed," said Ibrahem. "Over the last few nights of June, the two planets were apparently approaching each other in the sky, rendering a magnificent view for stargazers. Certainly, there was no chance of collision, as Saturn was about 13 times more distant than Venus."
Over the following nights, the two planets diverged gradually. They are located among the bright stars of the zodiacal constellation Leo, the lion. Venus, the brightest star-like object in the sky can be identified easily in the western sky, during dusk. It is visible about 30 minutes after sunset.
Moonrise over Alexandria
Photo by Aymen Ibrahem, Senior Astronomy Specialist
Ibrahem also recorded a fascinating moonrise over Alexandria, and made an observation of a flash of an Iridium satellite.
Further Reading
An Evening Planetary Parade
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Aymen Mohamed Ibrahem