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YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) – The Valley is preparing for April’s total solar eclipse, when the moon will completely block Earth from the Sun for those in the path of totality. However, the eclipse won’t be the only thing you can see out of this world.
Some planets, stars and possibly a comet may also be visible. You just have to look in the right place.
Just before reaching 100% totality, you may be able to see the planet Venus. It is approximately 15 degrees from the sun and will be the brightest planet in the sky.
You may be able to see Venus before, during, and after totality.
To locate it, you can simply use your fist. It’s about 10 degrees wide and if you hold it with your arm extended toward the sun, it should be somewhere just outside your fist.
Another planet you may be able to see is Jupiter. It will not be visible until 100% totality is reached with the eclipse.
Jupiter will also be quite faint compared to Venus. You can find it approximately 30 degrees from the sun when 100% totality is reached during the eclipse.
Have you ever seen a comet? Otherwise, you might have a chance to see the first one during the total solar eclipse.
Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks will pass during the eclipse. It’s a rare thing to see because it has an orbital period of 71 years!
There is no guarantee that comet 12P/Pons-Brooks will be visible. Since the comet is a large ball of earth and ice floating in space, pieces need to be broken off so that the light flares are visible.
Fortunately, comet 12P/Pons-Brooks does this somewhat routinely. If you want to take a look at it, it will be about 25 degrees from the sun.
As you watch the total solar eclipse and look for any of these objects in outer space, don’t forget to use your eclipse glasses and remember the first trick to find them.