Conjunctions

Magical moments are created when two or more objects appear close in the night sky

The term ‘conjunction' is loosely used to describe occasions when two or more astronomical bodies appear close in the sky. A more formal, astronomical definition describes two or more objects sharing a common coordinate value – for example, right ascension or ecliptic longitude. Although they have no scientific importance, conjunctions can be amazing to witness: the relative movement of bodies up to and beyond the point of closest approach really hammers home the fact that we live in a three-dimensional Solar System. Lunar conjunctions with bright planets happen once a month, although circumstances may not always be conducive to see them all. Conjunctions between bright Jupiter, or Venus, and the Moon really grab the attention. Visually exciting to see, conjunctions between bright objects also make great targets to image, even…

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BBC Sky at Night United Kingdom (Digital) - 1 Issue, September 2024

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