The red planet Mars is a spectacle rising in the eastern sky soon after sunset. A brighter Mars will not be visible until the year 2035, and for many this may be a first time to spot the planet.

Mars reaches opposition in mid-October and the show is available all month. Opposition happens about every two years, but this one is best placed for our latitude. Mars was closer two years ago but it was also close to the southern horizon.

The planet is 38 million miles away — note that the sun is far more distant at 93 million miles. Some say Mars is brighter than Jupiter. But Mars is red, Jupiter is white and it may be hard to tell. Jupiter is in our southwestern sky near Saturn. So take a look tonight and make your own decision. Which one is brighter?

Anytime after dark is good for viewing. Mars will be visible overhead from after sunset to sunrise. The best time to look is when the planet is conveniently high overhead, close to midnight.