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This Monday (21), there is an alignment between Jupiter and Saturn, one of the most anticipated astronomical events of 2020. The phenomenon can be seen from anywhere in Brazil with the naked eye, provided that the weather conditions are favorable.
During the “great conjunction”, as the meeting is known, the two celestial bodies will align in such a way that they will appear to form a kind of double disk, making a great show in the night sky.
The full line-up started on Wednesday (16) and can be seen initially in the regions closest to the equator, and runs until Christmas Day. But its peak will occur on the 21st, the date that marks the winter solstice.
Jupiter and Saturn highlighted in the sky.Source: Unsplash
Anyone who misses the opportunity to see the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn in 2020 will have to wait until 2080 for a chance with similar conditions. And after the latter, such a visible alignment will only occur around 2400.
A little history
Also nicknamed “star of Bethlehem” and “Christmas kiss”, due to the moment in which it will occur this time, the approximation between the two largest planets in the Solar System occurs every 19.85 years. But they are not always as close as now.
The last time Jupiter and Saturn had an alignment as close as 2020 was in 1623, that is, 400 years ago. And in conditions similar to those of today, occurring at night, the most recent event took place in 1226, still during the Middle Ages.
The next lineup will be 20 years from now, but with a smaller approximation.Source: Pixabay
This phenomenon marks the time it takes for the two gas giants to align, after completing the orbit around the Sun. While Jupiter travels in “only” 11.86 years, Saturn takes a little longer to complete the trip: 29.4 years .
It is worth mentioning that both will not be in the same plane during the event or as close as it may appear to be observing from Earth. It’s about perspective. They will be at different points in the sky and will be approximately 700 million kilometers apart.
How to observe the conjunction
On the 21st, approximately one hour after sunset, it will be possible to see the conjunction between Jupiter and Saturn. To do this, look to the west and locate the alignment formed at a lower point in the sky, characterized by two bright objects.
Larger and brighter, Jupiter will be on the left, displaying a whitish luminosity. Saturn can be seen on the right, showing an orange glow.
The NASA illustration helps identify the two celestial stars.Source: NASA / Disclosure
For a wider view, the ideal is to be in an open place, with no nearby buildings or trees, in addition to having little artificial light. It is also essential that the sky has no clouds at the time of the phenomenon.
If you have a telescope, even a simpler one, you can observe the alignment with a greater level of detail, seeing the four largest moons of Jupiter orbiting the planet, for example. Even binoculars offer some benefits.
Apps that can help with observation
If you have trouble locating planets in the sky, an interesting tip is to bet on astronomy apps. Very easy to use, they help you find celestial stars on your cell phone, quickly.
Among the best options are Stellarium, Google Sky Map and Star Chart.
