* Astronomy

Pluto makes its closest approach to the Earth (distance: 31.240 AU) on the 26th June, 2012.

The Moon is close to Mars on the 26th June, 2012.

Eyes on the Sky: June 25 thru July 1

Vega is a bright star easily found and seen in the eastern sky in summer evenings even from city locations, and it anchors the constellation Lyra the Harp. But do you know the story of Lyra, which was a lyre played by the Greek mythological character of Orpheus? Find out in this week's "Astronomy Theatre"! Learn some easy to spot binocular and telescopic objects in Lyra, such as Delta Lyrae, or download the handy Lyra star chart at www.eyesonthesky.com. The revolution of the Moon around Earth means our natural satellite stops by some other celestial objects, starting with Mars, moving to Saturn, and ending the week near Antares in Scorpius. And finally, don't miss the evening appearance of Mercury near the stars of Gemini, and the morning apparitions of Jupiter and Venus near Aldebaran in Taurus.

The Moon is close to Mercury on the 21st June, 2012.