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Where Is Saturn Located in the Sky?

Saturn is the second largest of all the known planets in our solar system and is the sixth world in terms of distance from the sun. Saturn, like the other planets, orbits the Sun, taking 29.5 Earth years to complete one revolution. Where Saturn can be found in the night sky depends on where the planet is on that journey around the sun.

The Zodiac
- The zodiac is made up of a dozen constellation that form a ring around the sky as seen from Earth. The known planets' orbits all pass through these zodiac constellations.
Slow Path
- Depending on where Saturn is in its orbit it will be found in or near one of the zodiac constellations. Since it takes so long for the planet to orbit the sun, it remains in the vicinity of the same constellation for years at a time.
Charts
- By using star charts that have meticulously plotted Saturn's orbit, you can find which constellation it will be in on a specific date.These charts are available online or in book stores and can show you where Saturn will be for years to come.
Brightness
- Although Saturn is 95 times larger than the Earth, it is so distant that it can be mistaken for a star. However, it is so bright that only two stars in the night sky, Canopus and Sirius, are brighter.
Rings
- Saturn is encircled by series of rings made up of ice crystals and debris. The angle of these rings as seen from Earth can change, making Saturn appear dimmer or brighter depending on the angle.

Astronomy