The closest Mars-Earth fly-by in 60,000 years is over and we are now pulling away from the Red Planet at about 1,000 miles per day. The two won't be so close together again for another 278 years, writes Dick Ahlstrom, Science Editor
Mars spotting kept thousands busy last night, hoping for a glimpse given the fact the planet was so "close", a mere 34,646,418 miles away.
Astronomy Ireland had telescopes set up at venues around the State and Northern Ireland, and people were out in back gardens with binoculars to see the planet at its closest since the days when Mastodons and Neanderthals walked the Earth. And for once the weather co-operated.
Most parts had dry conditions and good clear spells, with temperatures ranging from nine to 13 degrees.
Clouds usually put many would be astronomers off but all one needs is a brief gap in the cloud cover to open up a viewing opportunity, according to Mr David Moore of Astronomy Ireland.
Those watching last night were actually "late" for the Mars-Earth event. The precise moment when the two sailed passed was at about 10.51 a.m. yesterday morning. There isn't much opportunity to view a planet however when the sun is shining as it was yesterday.
There is no chance of missing the Red Planet for several months, however, and for the next two or three weeks at least the planet will appear as bright in the sky as it did last night. Although separating at about 1,000 miles per day, this extra distance is nothing compared to the vast 34 million mile gap already lying between the two planets. It is simply not noticeable, according to Mr Moore.
The planet will remain just as easy to find as it has been for the past few weeks.
Simply scan the southern sky after dark and look for the brightest star-like object you can see.
If it has a weak reddish colour you are looking at Mars.
It remains quite low, just 21 degrees above the horizon, but still well above roofs, trees and other obstructions. However, don't expect to see anything more than an off-white star unless you have a very good telescope at your disposal.
