For the last few nights when I have gone out the back of my house for a ciggy I've noticed what I thought was a star. This one however has an orange/red tint unlike the rest which appear to be blue. I live west of London and this star/planet appears to the left of Orion. Could this be Mars?

London, November 12, 2007

have you taken pictures of it? if yes, could you post it. so that our co-members that are more experienced in this topic would be able to help you.

We are catching up to Mars this, and next month. Earth has a faster orbit, and so we usually get this close every 26 months. Actually, the closest will be around New Years. Thereafter, it is bye bye to Mars for another two years, as we hurry on.

I've looked at the thumbs and I'm pretty sure it will be mars.






I've not really got the right equipment for this, i could try if the cloud clears.


Cheers for the responses.

I believe you are correct. Mars is currently in the vicinity Orion at this time ( in Gemini if I've got my constellations right!). That's undoubtedly what you're seeing.