Episode 7: Venus

Dog Stars

Mr Max is on the mini Cheddars as he and Chris make a slow wander around the local park, looking at Earth's mysterious neighbour, Venus. We find out why it's not shining quite as brightly as it does, explain why the Venera 8 mission which landed on its surface scored an own goal, and think about the prospect of penguins high in its atmosphere.
You can read about the Ashen light here: https://www.skyatnightmagazine.com/space-science/ashen-light-mystery-venus-dark-side-glow/, and get a guide to the upcoming conjunction of Venus, Jupiter and the Moon here: https://www.skyatnightmagazine.com/advice/venus-jupiter-neptune-moon-february-2023/