While it’s never a good idea to count on nice Saskatoon weather in the spring — the snow isn’t done with us yet — it’s safe to assume the general temperature trend is heading upwards. That means patios opening, evening countryside drives and plenty of clear skies. Whether you’re out on the town taking a well-deserved study break, or burning the midnight oil cramming frantically, step outside this April and enjoy some of the late-night celestial sights.
Between 12:30 and 1 a.m. on Apr. 13, Mars and Saturn will rise closely together in the southeastern sky. Saturn is the second largest planet in our solar system, known for its distinctive ring system. The rings are actually comprised of countless tiny particles made of dust and ice, which create a solid-looking ring from afar. In addition to these rings, Saturn has over 60 moons, ranging from tiny bodies like Mimas through to Titan, which is twice the size of Earth’s moon, on which rivers of liquid methane flow.
Due to its distance from Earth — nine times the distance from Earth to the Sun — Saturn doesn’t stand out for its brightness in our skies. Mars, on the other hand, appears bright and with a distinctive reddish tinge, so look for it first and spot Saturn just below it. Mars and Saturn will continue to rise earlier every night throughout the rest of April.