This was a great morning for planets, and stars. Mercury was just hanging there above the horizon, almost lost in the twilight, while Venus was like a beacon much higher up. Saturn is in a lovely position with Castor and Pollux, and Orion just looks like a giant striding across the sky. I'm always amazed when I see Orion for the first time after the Summer. I tend to forget just how huge and impressive it is!

9 of the Seven Sisters could be picked out, proving that September mornings really are the best time for Pleiad-spotting. Beautiful morning.

Nice one, Shane! John Flannery and I got wonderful views of Mercury, Saturn, Venus and the crescent Moon at 5.00 last Thursday morning from Sandymount Strand - well worth the very early start! Mercury should be at greatest elongation around about now, so a clear morning like this morning or last Thursday provides a great opportunity to have a good look at this ever-elusive planet. And it's great to have Saturn back in view again.

Looking forward to seeing you in Birr at the weekend!