Venus during the daytime

[Argonavis (William)]

Tomorrow, the 19th of May, Venus will be easily visible during the daytime due to its close proximity to the 2 day old Moon.

I was alerted to this by Sky&Telescope. It appears that normally it is difficult to spot Venus during the daytime as our eyes do not readily focus at infinity. Having the Moon close by means that, by focusing on the Moon, our eyes can adjust to an infinity focus. Once having done this, it should be easy to spot Venus 15 degrees away.

The 2 day old Moon is about 30 degrees west of the Sun, and Venus itself is 15 degrees west of the Moon. Outstreatched fingers at arms length should cover about 15 degrees.

[circumpolar (Matt)]

Thanks for the heads up.

[Rob_K]

Thanks Will! I think we actually get it a bit closer in E Australia - less than 4 degrees separation during the afternoon of 20th May, & about 4 degrees at sunset. The moon & Venus will fit easily within the FOV of 12 x 50 binoculars. Should be a great sight, if the clouds lift here.

Cheers -

[Lert]

I spotted Venus yesterday evening 40mins before local sunset. No problem with eyes focusing. More to do with knowing where to look. I'll try again a bit earlier later on.

[leon]

Looking forward to the event Will, thanks for the heads up.

Leon