Starwatch: Jupiter and Saturn shine in the very early hours

The giant planets are not favourably placed right now, but in the pre-dawn light they are visible while few stars are

It is easy to forget the two giant planets of the solar system at the moment. Neither Jupiter nor Saturn are favourably placed, but for early risers they are both visible in the pre-dawn sky.

The chart shows the view looking southeast at 04.00 BST on 30 June, although the view will not charge markedly throughout this week. As the breaking dawn light fills the sky, few stars will be visible, but Jupiter and Saturn will be shining. Jupiter will be the brighter of the two, shining its white light off to the east. It is located in the constellation of Aries, the ram. Meanwhile, Saturn will be dimmer and yellow in colour off to the south-south-east. It is located in the constellation of Aquarius, the water bearer.