finding saturn?

hi I have an oppourtunity to view dark skys this weekend, im interested to know how to find saturn, some near by constellations would be a help,im not sure what time i will be able to observe but after dark obviously.

hi I have an oppourtunity to view dark skys this weekend, im interested to know how to find saturn, some near by constellations would be a help,im not sure what time i will be able to observe but after dark obviously.

It's the really bright star that shouldn't be there at the front of Leo.

Saturn is caught between Cancer and Leo. In fact, if you know what The Sickle in Leo looks like (reversed '?'), then you'll spot Saturn nestled into it. You'll have to wait till after 9pm for it to become appreciably high enough away from trees etc. It is way up to the upper-left of Orion as it gets to its highest point around 2am. Have a look at www.heavens-above.com , and select their 'Whole Sky Map', enter the different times, and you'll see the change in its position throughout any night. Tonight, the Moon is about the same distance to its right as the width of your outstretched hand in front of you at arms length.

Hope this helps,

Seanie.

Here's a map for today:

This image is for tomorrow night (Friday)

www.astroshack.net/graphics/Feb.jpg

Saturn right next to the moon.

thanks a mil very helpful, particurly this link www.astroshack.net/graphics/Feb.jpg , its ideal for a beginner.