This week we start with the waxing Moon as it heads toward May’s micromoon, the Flower Moon. Jupiter and Mars light up the western sky, while Venus, Saturn, and elusive Mercury put on a show before sunrise.

Don’t miss your chance to spot Vesta — one of the brightest and biggest asteroids visible from Earth — as it reaches peak visibility this week.

Later in the show, we venture far beyond our solar system to explore the wild world of exoplanets: planets orbiting other stars. From glass rainstorms to twin-star systems, we take a look at the science behind discovering distant worlds.

For more episodes and resources for backyard astronomers, visit www.startrails.show. Share the wonder of the stars with friends and continue your cosmic journey with us. Also, connect with us on Mastodon @star_trails, or on Bluesky @startrails.bsky.social.

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