In late April and continuing through much of May there will be four planets visible in the morning sky. Mercury, Venus, Mars, and Jupiter all appear near each other although they will shift their relative positions a bit each day. An animation showing the daily changes can be viewed at the Sky and Telescope web site.

Because of the volcanic cinder hills that are prevalent in this part of northern Arizona it was necessary to wait until the lowest planet rose above the hills. By this time, however, the sky was already brightening substantially.

Later this month when the moon wanes and becomes a slim crescent it will join the four planets making a truly remarkable sight.