The Christmas Star Will Be Visible in the Sky – In 2020, we may be able to see the Christmas Star in the sky. It hasn’t been visible in 800 years. #ChristmasStar
The Christmas Star Will Be Visible in the Sky
This occurrence will happen December 21 along with the Winter Solstice. According to NASA the Christmas Star is not actually a star. It is a planet alignment.
Learn more about the Actual Christmas Star from the Bible!
The two planets that align are Saturn and Jupiter.
On December 21, 2020, Jupiter and Saturn will inch closer and closer to each other to be in conjunction, according to Space.com. Which these two planets rarely get this close to each other.
Weather and cloud cover could prevent you from seeing this rare sighting. It might be best to get outside of the city, into the country, where you don’t have the city light.
NASA says, for those who would like to see this phenomenon for themselves, here’s what to do:
- Find a spot with an unobstructed view of the sky, such as a field or park. Jupiter and Saturn are bright, so they can be seen even from most cities.
- An hour after sunset, look to the southwestern sky. Jupiter will look like a bright star and be easily visible. Saturn will be slightly fainter and will appear slightly above and to the left of Jupiter until December 21, when Jupiter will overtake it and they will reverse positions in the sky.
- The planets can be seen with the unaided eye, but if you have binoculars or a small telescope, you may be able to see Jupiter’s four large moons orbiting the giant planet.
- The best way to catch a glimpse of the rare phenomenon is to look about one hour after sunset, the planets are visible with the naked eye.
The last time this occurred was in July of 1623 and March 1226.
“On the 21st, they will appear so close that a pinkie finger at arm’s length will easily cover both planets in the sky,” NASA said. “The planets will be easy to see with the unaided eye by looking toward the southwest just after sunset.”
“Jupiter will look like a bright star and be easily visible,” NASA said. “Saturn will be slightly fainter and will appear slightly above and to the left of Jupiter until Dec. 21, when Jupiter will overtake it and they will reverse positions in the sky.”
It’s believed the next time won’t be for another 60 years, March 15, 2080. So, this just might be a once in a life-time for many of us. As we are never promised tomorrow!
Will you go try to see this rare planet alignment?
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