Posted in Washington Nature, Winter December 15, 2020 by

A Christmas Star Will Light Up The Washington Sky For The First Time In Centuries

Say what you want about 2020, but one thing we can all agree on is that this has not been a normal year. And if you’ve been paying attention to our solar system, you know that the oddities are not quite over. On December 21, the day of the winter solstice, Jupiter and Saturn will appear closer to each other than they have been since the Middle Ages. This phenomenon is being appropriately referred to as the Christmas Star… and we’ll likely be able to see it.

The unique planetary alignment that we are about to experience hasn't been seen in 800 years.
Wendy / Flickr
This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime event that you won't want to miss out on.
On the evening of the winter solstice, December 21, 2020, Jupiter and Saturn will come so close together that they will appear to be one giant star.
Mint Images / Getty Images
These two monstrous planets do align about every 20 years. But this month will be the closest they've come together since the Middle Ages.
Experts claim that the real star of Bethlehem (yes, that one) was actually a very rare conjunction between Venus, Saturn, and Jupiter.
shaunl via E+ Collection / Getty Images
While this is an unproven theory, it actually makes a lot of sense, especially when you realize that this rare phenomenon always happens close to Christmas.
But unlike most Christmases, this year, you'll have the chance to see this beauty for yourself.
Daniel A. Leifheit via Moment Collection / Getty Images
Just find a big, open sky free from light pollution from the outside world, and stick around until an hour after sunset. Bring a telescope if you have it — the star might be difficult to see without one.
Don't pass up the chance to see the Christmas Star — it won't be visible again until the year 2080.
Wendy / Flickr
Despite this turbulent year, this could end up being a bright Christmas after all.

Will you be looking for the Christmas Star from Washington on December 21st?

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