Arcturus and Spica

“Follow the arc to Arcturus, and then speed to Spica.”

If you’ve ever heard a star-gazer muttering that under their breath, and wondered what kind of nonsense they were talking about—you’re not alone. But in this week’s article, you can find out the sense behind that phrase for yourself, and use it to identify one of the most prominent stars in the night sky.

First, go outside on a clear morning in January or February, before dawn, and locate the Big Dipper. It should be high above the eastern horizon, with its handle creating an arc that points south-east. By following this arc across the sky, your eyes should easily locate a bright orange star. This is Arcturus. Now, draw an imaginary line straight southeast from Arcturus. The first bright, bluish-white star you see will be Spica.

How to locate Arcturus and Spica (Image Courtesy of Stellarium and edited by Author)
How to locate Arcturus and Spica (Image Courtesy of Stellarium and edited by Author)

Now do you get it? Follow the arc to Arcturus, and then speed to Spica. It’s that easy!

If you’re still not so sure about this, on the morning of January 30th, you’ll have an even easier way to locate Spica. It will be close buddies with the waning gibbous moon, accompanying it across the sky through the dark hours of the morning.

January 30th Dawn (Image Courtesy of Stellarium and edited by Author)
January 30th Dawn (Image Courtesy of Stellarium and edited by Author)

By Rina Rast

Rina graduated from homeschool in 2016 and is a current undergraduate student. Her interests include science, photography, philosophy, and 20th century history. When not analyzing data, tackling term papers, or exploring the night sky through her telescope, she enjoys reading, writing, and walking her canine friends.