While many people out on the Fourth of July will be waiting for the first rocket and loud boom that makes up the fireworks display, it might also be a time to look to the west for a brilliant planet, Venus, the brightest planet in our west northwest evening sky.

Venus will be hugging close to the western sky right after sunset, at about the same place as the sun has set. The planet is tough to spot for many. If the sky is clear, those with a view of the western sky will see it.

Venus may be a little difficult to see now, but it becomes more visible in the weeks ahead. Venus is growing in height. In the nights ahead, Venus will appear higher in the sky. By August, Venus will set as much as an 1 1/2 hours after sunset.

Saturn

The ringed planet Saturn appears high in the southern sky. Saturn is in a sweet area between the zodiacal constellation Virgo and Libra. The planet is a short distance away from the bright blue-colored star Spica. Spica is the principal star in Virgo.