Rare Chance to See Mercury Without a Telescope

Mercury is notoriously difficult to spot with the naked eye, thanks to its proximity to the sun. Most of the time, you get only a few minutes to see it before the sun comes up over the horizon, obscuring your view with daylight. But if you want the best view of the smallest planet in our solar system, the first two weeks of September are your chance.

Through Sept. 14, Mercury is far enough away from the sun to be seen while it's still dark outside. Your best bet is to catch it between now and Sept. 10.

What's the best time to see Mercury?

On Sept. 5, Mercury rose over the horizon at around 5:50 local time in the eastern skies ...