What is the brightest planet in the night sky?

Venus is known as the brightest planet in the night sky due to its highly reflective cloud cover, which primarily consists of thick sulfuric acid clouds. This reflective quality allows Venus to effectively bounce sunlight, making it shine brightly compared to other celestial bodies. Its proximity to Earth and the Sun also contribute to its visibility; not only is it often found near the horizon, appearing after sunset or before sunrise, but its brightness can outshine even the brightest stars. Observers often refer to Venus as the "Evening Star" or the "Morning Star" because of its prominence during those times. Additionally, Venus's brightness can also be enhanced by atmospheric conditions, making it a standout object for both amateur and seasoned astronomers alike.