One can see closest encounter of our celestial planets, Jupiter and Saturn, from the earth on December 21. If missed this time, one needs to wait till 2080 to view the event next. The giant outer planets, Jupiter and Saturn, head for closest visible alignment in 800 years. The encounter, known as a great conjunction, happens about every 20 years. But this time, it will be the closest alignment since 1623.
In ancient time, people considered planetary alignments to be bad omens, portending calamity.
Although they will appear to be close together but planets will not actually be that close. In fact, they will be more than 400 million miles apart. Over the next two weeks, as their orbits align more closely, the planets will pull closer until they appear to be just a tenth of a degree apart. Regional Science Centre will bring the encounter in their social media handles with the help of a telescope.
The event is likely to be covered up subject to availability of clear dark sky. Enthusiasts are requested to stay tuned to website and social media handles of the Regional Science Centre (RSC), Bhubaneswar for schedule and update regarding their night sky observation programme, said a release.