by Aldo Hugo Olguín
Professor of Mathematics, Physics and Cosmography
During May and June, our planet will go around Virgo, Libra and Scorpion constellations. We will be able to see their stars high in the sky during the long and dark winter nights.
Once in the dark of night, we will be able to see how the Southern Cross sets itself in vertical position, just like the hour hand of a huge clock pointing to the south. Scorpion will be easy to spot because of its question mark shape, and because it is made up of stars set from north to south in the sky. Antares, the red star at the center of the constellation, symbolizes the heart of the scorpion, a mythological animal.
At this time of year, days become shorter and nights become longer, the sun is inclined more to the north, and loses some of its brightness, whereas the moon and the planets can been seen brighter and higher in the sky. By the 22nd of June, the sun starts reducing its inclination to the north and begins its return. This period, which extends from June 18th to June 26th, is called still sun, or Winter solstice in the south hemisphere, and it marks the change of the season. Stars are more visible than usual, and since weather conditions are generally good, we just need to be well wrapped -up and to sit comfortably to watch the sky.
Venus will be the morning star, and it will be next to the moon by May 16th. This will be a great show at dusk! On May 23rd, Mars (the red star), Saturn (the yellow star), and the crescent moon will be together at dusk. Do not miss this! While observing, you might be surprised by a beautiful shooting star … make a wish!
