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SIGHTS
As we begin a new decade, Mary McIntyre takes a look at some of the best astronomical views to be seen in its first year
2020 TO SEE IN
The Lunar X and V
The Lunar X and V are transient lunar features visible once a month for about four hours, close to first quarter phase. The letter ‘X’ is caused by light illuminating the rims of craters Blanchinus, La Caille and Purbach. The ‘V’ is caused by light illuminating the Ukert crater. They are visible at night from the UK on 2 January around 20:30 UT and again on 22 November at 17:00 UT. You will need binoculars or a small scope to see them.
Can you spot the letters X and V? The Moon’s optical effects are caused by sunlight illuminating crater rims and mountain peaks
30 BBC Sky at Night Magazine January 2020
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Mary McIntyre is an astronomer and dedicated astro imager based in Oxfordshire
he coming year is shaping up to be a great one for astronomy, with some interesting rare events. The night sky is packed with gems and many can be observed with the naked eye. But you can also use binoculars to help you learn your way around the sky and investigate some objects that wouldn’t otherwise be visible, or probe deeper with a telescope and discover some beautiful objects, such as clusters, galaxies, nebulae and planets. Here we list some of the best sights of 2020, with something for every ability level, and there’s even a few great photo opportunities. Why not see how many of these objects you can observe?