01:27 PM
Sunday, August 11, 2024
In the early hours of Wednesday morning (August 14), two of the brightest and most famous planets in the solar system will appear to be approaching each other. In this rare conjunction between Jupiter and Mars, the two planets will be only a third of a degree apart in the night sky.
The term planetary conjunction refers to the situation in which two or more planets appear close to each other.
Although Jupiter is about 20 times brighter than Mars, both planets are easily visible to the naked eye from anywhere in the world with clear skies. However, a good pair of binoculars or a small telescope will enhance the view. Not only will you see the planets more clearly with these optical aids, but Jupiter’s four largest moons will also be visible. Ganymede and Callisto orbit Jupiter, with the volcanic moon Io and Europa possibly residing between Jupiter and Ganymede. Mars will appear slightly higher than Jupiter and its moons.
Although the planets appear very close together during this conjunction, this is only an optical illusion. In fact, Mars is in the foreground and Jupiter is further away (500 million kilometers), according to EarthSky.
This planetary conjunction is the last for the year. The next planetary conjunction will occur on January 20, 2025, when the paths of Venus and Saturn cross. However, the next most famous planet for sky watchers is the annual opposition of Saturn.
On September 7, the Earth will be directly between the Sun and Saturn, where the circular planet will be at its biggest, brightest and best of the year. Any telescope will allow you to see the unique ring pattern.
