Jupiter & Saturn Will Align to Create the First "Christmas Star" in Nearly 800 Years

As 2020 comes to a close, and we start winding down for the holidays, the solar system is gracing us with a cosmic Christmas miracle, a Christmas Star! Often referred to as the “Star of Bethlehem” the Christmas Star has not been witnessed in close to 800 years. On December, 12st, 2020, when Jupiter and Saturn align, for the first time, you will be able to witness this Christmas miracle for yourself!

Jupiter and Saturn Align

Jupiter and Saturn aligning are rather rare, this event, sometimes referred to as the Great Conjunction, occurs occurring around once every 20 years, but this alignment is exceptionally rare because of how close the planets will be to one another, you would have to go all the way back to March 4, 1226, to see a closer alignment between these planets visible in the night sky.

On December 21, 2020 they will align so closely in the night sky that they'll create a radiant point of light some call the "Solstice Star," "Star of Bethlehem" or the "Christmas Star."

How to View the Christmas Star

To catch a glimpse of the phenomenon, simply look up into the sky facing the southwest about 45 minutes after sunset, the Christmas Star will be visible from anywhere on earth for the entire fourth week of December, make sure to peek out of your window, or go outside for a glimpse of this holiday treat.