If your looking to spot some planetary action this month, then take a look at the close conjunction of Mercury and Mars on the evenings of Feb. 7th and 8th.
Look west about half an hour after sunset on the 7th and 8th to spy these two planets hanging out together. On the 7th Mars will be about 3/4 of a degree to the upper left of Mercury, while on the 8th it will be even closer at 1/2 a degree to the lower left. You should be able to spot Mercury relatively easily, weather permitting. However Mars is significantly less bright and may require optical aid. Using a telescope will reveal Mercury is in a gibbous phase and approximately 80% illuminated. Mars will appear round. All planets inward of Earth will show phases just like our moon, whereas planets beyond us will always appear full.
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