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Editorial
Subtle sky show on tap for U.S. this weekend
Friday, February 10, 2017
It won't be anything spectacular, but sky watchers are in for a treat as today's spring-like weather is followed up with a chance for some astronomical observations.
Tonight's full moon will rise under a "penumbral eclipse," when it passes through a partial shadow from the earth.
Without being prepared, you might not notice it is taking place. Then again, it's a "snow moon," an especially bright full moon that occurs this time of year.
The full moon won't be a friend to skywatchers looking for another event, however, the closest fly-by of the comet 45P/Honda-Mrkos-Pajdusakova in 30 years.
If you can find the constellation Hercules, that's where you can focus your telescope or binoculars in an attempt to view the green, fuzzy blob.
Open skies, relatively unscarred by light pollution are one of Nebraska's natural resources, and we hope as outdoor lighting projects are considered, officials keep that in mind.