Jupiter & Venus |
From Sky News
Astronomy fans have been enjoying a rare treat as Jupiter and Venus appear side-by-side in the night sky.
Although the planets are far apart in space, they appeared on Monday night to be separated by only a few degrees.They were visible just after sunset towards the west and were expected to appear again on Tuesday evening.
There has been excitement among astronomers at the prospect of two of the brightest planets in the solar system appearing so closely together, according to Robert Massey of the Royal Astronomical Society.
He said: "Although conjunctions are not that rare, the interest in this one is a result of how spectacular it is.
"Both planets are very bright in the night sky. If you know where to look, you can even see Venus in the day."
He added: "The two being so close together will be beautiful. Last night they looked like two beacons.
"It is also interesting for people because it just happens to be something which you can see for yourself."
Britons have been advised to look for Jupiter and Venus tonight in the South West.
Astronomers have said the planets will appear to move further west during the course of the night.
"While the pair will drift apart after a couple of days, Jupiter will be visible for at least another two weeks," Mr Massey said.
On March 5, Mars made its closest pass of Earth in more than two years, and in June Venus will appear to cross in front of the sun from some positions on Earth.
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