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Getting closer and closer: Jupiter and Saturn (Part I)

Getting closer and closer: Jupiter and Saturn (Part I)

  • 02.12.2020

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The curator forecast the Jupiter-Saturn conjunction last week. The conjunction wouldn't happen until 21 December. Before that, you can witness their rendezvous. Visually, Jupiter and Saturn are separated by about 2 degrees (around four times the moon's size) today but are getting closer and closer to about 0.5 degree in two weeks. Before that, you have to recognise them first in the vast night sky.

Jupiter and Saturn are now in Sagittarius. Look low in the southwest sky before 8:30 pm, you can find a bright yellow star (apparent magnitude = -2) which is Jupiter. It can be easily observable even in the city as it is the brightest star in the area. Next to Jupiter you can find a dimmer Saturn (apparent magnitude = 0.6, still bright enough to see in the city) and in the east (or upper left) of Jupiter. With two bright stars so close together, it should be easy to find them!

The curator invites you to look for Jupiter and Saturn, take pictures, and check back day after day to see when they will "kiss" (but still separated by a very safe social distance of at least 730 million km). Will you accept this challenge?

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