How to Spot Mercury in the Early Morning Sky

The planet Mercury can be very difficult to spot, unless you know when and where to look for it. Because of it's close proximity to the sun, spotting Mercury can be a challenge but now is the perfect time to catch a glimpse.

Star-gazing is quite a lot of fun if you have a telescope, but, even if you don't have one, it can still be a rewarding adventure. Venus, of course, has been an easy catch for naked-eye observers in recent weeks, and  you may have even caught a glimpse of Jupiter.

Now, Mercury gets a turn, but you need to know when and where to look - and you'll need to be up early.

According to space.com Mercury is currently rising 90 to 100 minutes before sunrise. About 45 minutes before sunrise you can see Mercury along the southeast horizon. It will appear as a very bright yellowish-orange object. You'll be able to see it until the morning light takes over the sky.

I don't have a telescope, but I do have binoculars - and I am an early riser, so I am hoping to catch a glimpse of this tiny planet.