Astronomy lovers, be sure to look up into the western sky Wednesday after sunset for a chance to see Venus and Jupiter close to each other in the sky.
The phenomenon is known as a conjunction, which is when astronomical objects seem to be near each other based on how we see them from Earth. These two planets appear in conjunction about once every year, but the instance March 1 is expected to be especially good because of how bright the planets will be, how close they’ll be in the sky and the fact that they will be visible without the Sun’s glare interfering.
According to the Adler Planetarium, the window to view the conjunction will begin about 30 minutes to 45 minutes after sunset, which is at around 5:41 p.m. on Wednesday, and end about 21/2 hours after sunset as the planets set. You can watch the sight without special equipment, but be sure to pick a viewing spot with a clear view of the western horizon.
Adler’s director of public observing Michelle Nichols and astronomy educator Hunter Miller will be hosting an episode of the planetarium’s YouTube series “Sky Observers Hangout” at 6 p.m. Wednesday to give tips about how to see the two planets. If the weather is good, they’ll also show a live telescope view.
If you’re looking for an enhanced viewing experience in person, the Adler plans to have small telescopes available for the public, weather permitting, beginning at 6 p.m. Wednesday. Be sure to reserve your tickets online in advance at tickets.adlerplanetarium.org.