Venus will lead a planetary parade that ushers in a new year.

To locate Venus stare high above the southwestern horizon at nightfall where the brightest planet can be seen clearly. You will be able to see this bright planet with the naked eye, but you will need a clear cool night to get the most out of your viewing pleasure. This effervescent planet remains a conspicuous evening object throughout January.

Early in the month, while you’re looking at Venus, look towards the southwestern horizon, where you can see the fading Jupiter as it moves closer to the sun each evening. Concurrently, Mercury appears to climb higher each night for a short visit. You will need to be in an area that’s dark with little or no light such as what big cities produce. Try to find an area that provides the best darkness and view for this great event. You will be able to see Mercury for about 10 days starting at the end of December.

On New Year’s Eve, Venus and the crescent moon together will ring in 2009 high in the southwest, while Mercury and Jupiter dance close to the horizon. By the next evening, Jan. 1, the cosmic couples have ceased to dance, and all go their separate ways.

With any luck, you might catch a few stray meteors before dawn Jan. 3rd. The shower this year peaks during the sunny part of the morning for the Northeast.