SEE THE WINTER CIRCLE (HEXAGON)

 Hey, Space Placers!

WINTER CIRCLE

Credit: EarthSky.org

As we approach the change of seasons with the Autumnal Equinox our sky view is changing. We can easily see the stars and constellations of two seasons at a time. After dark we can see the stars of spring in the West with bright Arcturus easily visible while the stars of summer dominate the skies overhead.

As the night progresses the summer constellations move to the West while the constellations of Fall begin to rise in the East led prominently by the "Great Square" of Pegasus.

In the East well before dawn the bright stars and constellations of Winter greet viewers. One of the best sky sights in Winter is the "Winter Circle", also known as the "Winter Hexagon". It is easy to see, just use the sky chart above to guide you. As we progress closer to Winter skies the Winter Circle will rise earlier and earlier until it will be well up in the sky after the earlier sunsets of Winter.

Enjoy the view and the last weeks of summer.

Sky Guy in VA