Yes, this is rare. And I think it is very beautiful. ‘ Sunday evening and Monday evening Jupiter and Saturn appear very close to each other. Jurriens describes it as ‘a cosmic kiss’ between the two largest planets of our solar system at RTV Drenthe.
As with the tower of Pisa
‘With a fancy word we also call this conjunction a conjunction. The planets are apparently very close to each other, ‘explains the astronomer. But appearances are deceptive in our vast solar system, because close together in outer space is still millions of miles apart.
‘You can compare it a bit with what many people do on holiday to Pisa. Then they take a picture that looks like they are standing against the leaning tower. That is not the case, that is a trick photo, ‘says Jurriens.
Higher Mathematics
The astronomical phenomenon is rare, because according to Jurriens, the two planets are close together once every sixty years. ‘It all has to do with the higher mathematics of the planet’s orbits and the orbital times. You can calculate it all neatly. ‘
Important when spotting the two major planets is good horizon visibility without too much air pollution. According to Jurriens, a nature reserve such as De Onlanden is an ideal place. ‘But we have had some bad luck in the North in recent weeks. It has been a bit cloudy. Anyway, we should just take a quick prayer that it is a bit clear tonight and Monday evening. “”
Pinky and thumb
According to Jurriens, around five o’clock is the ideal time to go outside to see the phenomenon, because the planets are still well above the horizon, towards the southwest. ‘A small tip is to make an outstretched arm, then place your little finger at the horizon. And then you have the two planets Jupiter and Saturn with your thumb, ‘the astronomer shows.
‘What’s also special is that when you look with your binoculars, you also see the moons of Jupiter. I must tell you, as little Theo in Meppel I got my passion for astronomy through those little moons of Jupiter. ‘
Jurriens now hopes for a clear evening with a beautiful horizon view. Because as said, the planets will not be so close to each other again for sixty years. Although there is still plenty to see in the coming days: ‘After Monday the planets will continue to separate again, so you can also follow that process properly. But it’s getting worse towards January. ‘
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