Wednesday's near occultation of Mars by the Moon

by Richard Lawler

I spied this wonderful view last night as I was driving home. When I got home I pulled out the Sky90 and binoviewer to the driveway. By the time the moon and mars made it above the hills to the east I was able easily make out ice cap and veined features on Mars.

While observing I mused that it was my son Marshal's ninth birthday. It was easy to see how primitive peoples took occultations and other celestial events as serious portents. Of course, we know better. But I have to wonder what the war bringer was up to with ol' looney and what it portends for coming year. :)