Starwatch: Jupiter and Saturn are joined by the moon

Weather permitting, it will be a good way to gauge how the moon moves and changes phase

Jupiter and Saturn are shining brightly in the southern sky. They are conspicuous because they are currently situated in a somewhat barren part of the night sky but this week the pair are joined by the moon on successive evenings.

The chart shows the view looking due south from London at 2100 BST on 14 October. The moon will be in a waxing gibbous phase with about 68% of its visible surface illuminated. The night before, Earth's natural satellite will be closer to Saturn, and the night after it will be pairing with Jupiter.