Planet observing samples
Find half-hour UTC samples when your chosen planet is high enough and the Sun is below civil twilight. Use local weather and a horizon check before observing.
Your inputs
Start with the example values, then replace them with your own. For tables, keep the vertical bar separators and use a dot for decimals.
This simplified educational calculation has stated assumptions. Do not use it for navigation, engineering safety or other safety-critical decisions.
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Result and workspace
Use the start button to open your result or activity.
How it works
Sample every 30 minutes across the UTC day. Retain samples with planet altitude at least the chosen threshold and Sun altitude below −6 degrees. This is a visibility geometry filter, not a guarantee that the object can be seen.
Worked example
These sample results use the original example inputs in the form. They do not change when you edit your inputs; your own result appears in the workspace.
- Qualifying samples: 5
| UTC instant | Altitude | Azimuth | Sun altitude |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026-10-08T01:30:00.000Z | 20.9623 | 87.8167 | -29.6938 |
| 2026-10-08T02:00:00.000Z | 26.6222 | 92.7668 | -24.263 |
| 2026-10-08T02:30:00.000Z | 32.2605 | 98.0046 | -18.6908 |
| 2026-10-08T03:00:00.000Z | 37.8246 | 103.6904 | -13.0342 |
Read the result carefully
Results depend on the values and assumptions shown above. Change one input at a time to see its effect. A blank or unavailable result means the data does not support a calculation; it is not zero.