Venus and Mars to Shine in Rare Planetary Conjunction This Week

Posted: July 11, 2021 3:58 am

Saturn and Jupiter Also to Appear Alongside Each Other

If you have spent any time gazing up at the night skies in recent weeks, there is a good chance that you have caught a glimpse of Venus. It is easy to see why this planet is often referred to as the “evening star.” Venus is the third brightest celestial object in the sky after the sun and the moon. Starting this week, Venus will be joined by Mars in an astronomical event known as a conjunction.

Venus to be Joined by Mars on Monday

Venus will not be the only planet lighting up the sky. Beginning on Monday, Mars will move alongside Venus in the sky. Because Mars will be dimmer than its counterpart Venus, most stargazers will need a telescope or binoculars to spot the planet. You will also be able to spot a crescent moon hovering above the pair of planets when looking up at the western sky. The moon will only be about 10% illuminated as it shines down on the planets. This trio will be visible approximately one hour after the sunset in your area.

Tuesday’s Viewing Opportunity

If you miss the show on Monday, the conjunction will also be visible on the following night. The moon will not be positioned as close to the planets on Tuesday compared to Monday, but you will still see all three in one shot. Your chances of seeing the planets together largely depend on the cloud cover in your area. Light pollution will also play a role in your success. Traveling out to rural areas will boost the odds that you see the July skies in all of their glory.

Saturn and Jupiter Coming Together

In addition to Venus and Mars, astronomical enthusiasts will also be looking at another planetary pair over the next several days. Saturn and Jupiter are on track to begin inching together in the southeastern sky by about 11 pm local time. However, this pair will be spaced farther apart than the Venus and Mars duo.

Saturn will be shining to the right of Jupiter. This is the reverse of how the two planets appeared in the sky last summer. Because of their brightness, you will be able to see both planets without the help of a telescope or other device.

Understanding the Evening Star

The evening star Venus will continue to show off in the evening sky for the rest of July and into August. However, because Venus will inch farther away from Mars each night, this Monday and Tuesday are your best chances to see the two together. Looking for Venus each night is a great way for novice stargazers to familiarize themselves with the wonder of the galaxy.

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