Mars ready for close-up

NOW is the time to catch Mars in the night sky.

Next week, the red planet is making its closest approach to Earth in 15 years. The two planets will be just 57.6 million kilometres apart on Tuesday (Los Angeles time). On Friday, Mars will be in opposition – meaning Mars and the sun will be on exact opposite sides of Earth. The total lunar eclipse will be visible in Australia (early Saturday morning), Africa, Asia, Europe and South America. Mars is brighter than usual and will shine even more – and seem bigger – as it approaches.

Astronomers expect good viewing through early August.