Spectacular astral display coming soon

Local astronomer, Ernst Marais explained that a very special and unique astral sighting will be taking place on 21 December, the first of its kind in the last 400 years!

“It is a great opportunity for photographers to put their skills to the test with some nighttime photography. The last time this phenomenon took place was 400 years ago – long before cameras ever existed – making this a novel opportunity,” he said.

On 21 December, the planets, Jupiter and Saturn, will be situated very closely together, allowing photographers to get both planets in a single shot.

In reality, Jupiter and Saturn are very far from each other, but from our viewpoint, the planets will seem aligned to the naked eye.

Ernst explained that with the use of a zoom lens, photographers will be able to split the two planets, giving a unique shot of the two so close together. The display will be visible very low on the western horizon.

“The planet Mars and the moon will also be in close proximity to each other during this period, but it might not be possible to get them both in the same shot.”

Ernst suggested that for the best outcome, photographers need to find a dark location with an uninterrupted view of the western horizon for the photo.

Photographers can also make use of the day before and after the 21st to capture this rare and unique opportunity.