I pick out North America’s celestial highlights for the week ahead (which also applies to northern hemisphere mid-northern latitudes).

Venus is particularly bright in the night sky this month, outshining even Sirius, the brightest star. For observers at mid-northern latitudes, the planet remains visible for about four hours after sunset throughout January, making it an excellent time to observe Earth's " evil twin ," as showcased in the stunning photos below.

Look to the southwest sky after sunset on Saturday, as the sliver of a waxing crescent moon nears bright Venus with Saturn just below. The moon and Venus will travel in tandem toward the western horizon, setting a few hours after the sun, according to Stellarium.

Exciting February sky events include Venus at its brightest and closest to Earth, the moon occulting the Pleiades, and a parade of planets in the post-sunset sky.