This year, 2020 has more surprises in store. After Halloween's blue moon, we will be able to witness another celestial event that is even rarer and much more impressive. Moreover, this unique occurrence happens to fall on the winter solstice.
On 21st December 2020, Jupiter and Saturn will come incredibly close to each other, a celestial spectacle that hasn’t been visible on Earth for almost 800 years! It is estimated that the last time this conjunction was seen was on the night of March 4, 1226.
In fact, the two planets of our solar system come that close to each other once in 400 years, but the conjunction isn’t always observable at night. As such, estimates show that it also occurred in 1623, during Galileo Galilei’s lifetime, but the conjunction appeared too close to the sun, so most likely, it was nearly impossible to spot. This time, everyone will be able to see it with the naked eye!
The conjunction also coincides with the winter solstice, which adds a mystical shade to this unique celestial event. Yet, according to scientists, it’s a mere coincidence and we should not seek any hidden astrological meaning in this extremely rare happening.
Will the conjunction look like a single star?
It is assumed that the two planets may appear as a single object, but it all depends on your location and weather conditions. Since nothing similar has ever happened in our lifetime, it’s impossible to know for sure what it will look like. At the same time, many astronomers believe that Jupiter and Saturn won’t be close enough to form one ‘Christmas star’.
Interestingly, there are some theories claiming that the biblical Star of Bethlehem could have been nothing but another Great Conjunction. Christians all over the world believe that a bright star in the night sky led Three Wise Men to the place where Jesus was born.
For more information, go to NASA
