The brilliant red sapphire planet Mars steals the show for the month of July and for the rest of the summer. Mars is the closest planet to the Earth. While through the years Mars does get closer, this is a great time to enjoy it.

Mars comes into opposition late in July, an event that happens every two years. But during this opposition, Mars is closer. Those with telescopes will get the best view, but anyone can enjoy this planet as part of the summer starry canopy.

You can find Mars rising in the east shortly after the sun sets in the west. Mars is in the zodiacal constellation Capricornus, nicely poised for viewing throughout the night. By midnight, Mars appears nearly overhead, a short distance from the zenith. Note its distinct reddish color.

On July 31, Mars will be 35.8 million miles away, its brightest and closest approach. Mars will not be as bright as Venus setting in our west. Mars will outshine Jupiter only for a short time.