During 2003-’04, with Saturn at perihelion, the rings were fully open upon the south face allowing excellent views of the southern hemisphere and up to 12 belts. Since 2002-’03 there had been an obvious darkening of the S. Polar Region, though the existing lighter area in the centre of the S. Polar Cap had become more conspicuous. Spot activity was noted over a wide range of latitudes from the N. edge of the S. Polar Cap to the southern Equatorial Zone. The occultation of the star SAO 78867 by the rings and globe was witnessed by several observers in the UK and USA.