July is a special month for skywatchers that offers a great view of the stars.

There are contents.

  • Planets at dawn
  • Dog days of summer
  • The teapot and the Milky Way

Planets at dawn

Early mornings in July offer a great view of planets. Only if you have a clear view of the horizon can Venus be seen.

The planets are spread out across the morning sky, accompanied by bright stars, according to NASA. You will find the moon next to Mars the next day.

NASA

One way to find the planets and stars is to use an astronomy app.

Dog days of summer

The origin of the expression "dog days of summer" can be found in NASA.

The phrase dates back to ancient times and is related to the bright star in the sky.

The ancient Greeks and Romans associated the constellation Canis Major with the sun's position in the sky at the peak of summer. Sirius is the most prominent star and it's sometimes called the dog star.

THe Canis Major constellation.
NASA

Both the Greeks and Romans believed that the bright star added to the sun's heat during that time of year. They decided to call this time of year the dog days.

Since those times, we have come to know that our sun is the only star that has an impact on the temperature here on Earth, with our planet's tilt changing the temperature through the 12-month cycle.

The teapot and the Milky Way

There is a chance to see the spectacle of the Milky Way in July.

The Milky Way viewed from Earth.
NASA

On July nights, the sky is full of bright stars, according to NASA. It is visible to the south as soon as it is completely dark. The group of stars in Sagittarius known as the Teapot will help you find its location in the sky even if you can't see it in the city.

The Teapot is a pattern of stars that looks like a tea vessel. NASA says that the Teapot looks like it is pouring out a cup of tea with the stars in the sky.

There is a video at the top of the page that explains how to spot the Teapot. Check your favorite astronomy app for the same info.

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