As the new year approaches, above the southwestern horizon Venus is now dominating the sky at sunset, replacing Jupiter that has stood bright during recent months.

The planet, now the brighter object in the heavens (at negative fourth magnitude, ultra bright), can be seen from urban areas without any effort and will be remaining a beacon in the sky during January.

Nevertheless, early the following month, Jupiter as well can still be spotted, as it gets closer to the Sun with each evening that passes, while Mercury is moving higher by the day, preparing to show up visible to the naked eye. At the end of December, the latter planet will start its night-sky appearances, which will last for a number of 10 days.

On New Year’s Eve, Venus and a crescent moon will rise high in the southwest, welcoming 2009 from the heavens above, whereas Jupiter and Mercury will be seen close to the horizon.

On January 1, however, the planets will begin floating their separate ways, bowing out of dusk performances only to leave room for Saturn to take over the cosmic scene.

Around 11 p.m., the planet will ascend between the Leo and the Virgo constellations and will be visible high in the southern sky right before the break of dawn.

At the end of the following month, the ringed planet will come to be seen from urban locations in the east, in mid-evening.

During the first five days of January, Quadrantid meteors showers are expected either at night or in the early mornings.