This month, Mercury will start becoming visible over the western horizon shortly after sunset. If you have students observe Mercury, they should do so at approximately the same time for each observation. During the first half of the month, Mercury will appear higher above the horizon and set a bit later each day. Students can also note that Mercury appears brighter following superior conjunction than when it is close to inferior conjunction. Despite its greater distance following superior conjunction, Mercury will be in nearly a full phase and will reflect more sunlight and appear brighter than when it is closer to us, but as a thin crescent.