Jeddah Astronomy Society: Skywatchers set for rare planetary encounter

BNA | Jeddah

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com   

The Jeddah Astronomy Society (JAS) has said that two planets will appear remarkably close together in the sky this Thursday, as Jupiter and Mars converge in a rare pre-dawn alignment.

Astronomy enthusiasts worldwide are gearing up for this spectacular celestial event.

"This is a once-in-a-decade opportunity. Observers will be able to see Jupiter’s brilliant white light paired with Mars’ distinctive reddish glow. It will look as if they are almost touching," said Majed Abu Zahra, head of JAS.

Abu Zahra added that the two planets will be separated by just 0.3 degrees, a feat not to be repeated until December 2033. While this proximity may appear astonishing, it is purely an optical illusion; Mars and Jupiter remain millions of miles apart, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

Telescope owners are in for an even greater treat, as Jupiter’s four largest moons will also be visible alongside the planetary duo. 

"This is a dream come true for astrophotographers," Abu Zahra said.

"Capturing both planets and their moons in a single frame will create stunning images," he added.

Planetary conjunctions vary in separation, usually ranging from 0.5 to 9 degrees.

In 2020, NASA's official website highlighted the "Great Conjunction" of Jupiter and Saturn as the most recent significant event.  During that event, the planets were less than 0.1 degrees apart.