Mercury, Venus, and Jupiter align low over the western horizon after sunset tonight, creating a satisfying mini planetary parade and a perfect astrophoto opportunity using a wide-angle lens or even just a smartphone.
Even though Venus and Jupiter have drifted apart slightly since their tight embrace on June 9, Mercury has climbed up beautifully from the sun's glare to join the party. Together, they form a striking slanted line along the ecliptic in the west-northwestern sky right after sunset.
