See Saturn's Rings!

Written by Alan Dyer Monday, 30 March 2009 00:00

Yes, you really can see the rings of Saturn.  You'll need a telescope (any will do), or the help of a friendly telescope-equipped neighbor!  This spring is the best time in 2009 to see the ringed planet, appearing as the brightest star high in the south at nightfall in April and May.  A telescope at 50 to 100 power (no need to use more magnification than that) will reveal the rings as sharp spikes of light sticking out on either side of the planet.  That's an unusual appearance for the planet because this year Saturn's rings are tipped almost edge-on to our line of sight, something that happens only every 15 years.

Alan Dyer is Program Director for the Telus World of Science in Calgary, and is an Honourary Member of the Lethbridge Astronomy Society.