A speckle on the sun: Transit of Venus 2012

A speckle on the sun: Transit of Venus 2012

Yes, we know we are not astronomers. But as a copywriting and public relations firm, we recognize interesting, rare astronomical events when we learn of one. Today, marks one of those events – we get to witness something that won’t happen for another century or so – the transit of Venus.

The transit occurs when Venus passes directly in between the Sun and Earth. This is the first transit since June 2004, and will be the last time until December 2117. Such an event takes place every 105.5 to 121.5 years, and occurs in pairs eight years apart. This year’s transit is expected to begin at around 6:00 p.m. EST and end around 12:50 a.m. EST. Many astronomers are posting up shop in Alaska, but the transit will be visible from parts of North America, Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

According to many of the stories we’ve read, for best results, experts recommend finding a spot on high ground facing the Northwestern horizon. Those in most areas in North and Central America will see the start of the transit until the sun sets, while those viewing in Western Asia, the eastern half of Africa and most of Europe will catch the transit’s end during sunrise.

Of course, viewing all depends on the weather and cloud condition in your area throughout the day. Here in the heart of Kendall Square in Cambridge, where we are located, the weather is too overcast to witness such a momentous event. So tonight, if you’re luckier than we are weather-wise, sit back, grab a telescope and prepare yourself for an astronomical sight.

Sources: FoxNews.com

Tags: , , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Boston, Copywriting, Events | Comments Off

Comments are closed.