Look low on the southwestern horizon at sunset on Nov. 12 for a chance to see swift Mercury close to the red light of Mars in the evening sky, but fair warning — you'll need to be quick to spot the elusive planets before they slip quickly out of sight.

Mercury will be positioned roughly 5 degrees above the horizon at sunset on Nov. 12, with Mars shining roughly 1 degree to its upper right. Remember: the width of your three middle fingers held at arm's length accounts for 5 degrees in the night sky, while the span of your little finger is the equivalent to roughly 1 degree.

Both objects will be challenging to spot in the glare of the setting sun, becoming more visible as the sun passes deeper below the horizon. As such, you'll need to find a clear view to the southwest to give yourself th

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