The red planet has been growing brighter in the night sky as Earth slides between the sun and Mars\, a cosmic game of monkey in the middle known as opposition that occurs on July 27. Mars will remain extra brilliant through the early hours of July 31 as its orbit brings it to its closest approach with Earth\, a mere 35.8 million miles. Read more about these events and how to enjoy them here: https://nyti.ms/2LFmsyh
