2020 has been quite the year, to put it lightly. With a constant bombardment of news all year long, often stressful and frustrating, the holidays seem like a welcome escape for a bit of cheer instead. Luckily, there is a bit of news that should brighten your dark skies – quite literally, actually – and that’s the Christmas Star over North Dakota. This year, for the first time in centuries, a special thing will happen in the night sky on the winter solstice. Be ready to look outside that night and see it!
Although for many it may already feel like winter has been upon us in North Dakota this year, the winter solstice has yet to happen. That day is December 21, 2020.
Geof Wilson/Flickr
Along with all the holiday cheer North Dakotans have been sharing, a special event will occur on that day - just a few days before Christmas.
Geof Wilson/Flickr
This event is astrological, happening among the stars of the night sky. Luckily for those living in North Dakota, our skies are spectacular on a clear night - and this just makes it more special.
Justin Kern/Flickr
Last occurring 1623 and previous another 400 years before that, a special “conjunction” of Jupiter and Saturn will make itself visible among all the stars. You will be able to see this best, weather permitting, about an hour after sunset low in the southwest.
Sam DeLong/Flickr
The alignment of Jupiter and Saturn will make them appear like one big, bright star. This “star” has been named the Christmas Star or Star of Bethlehem since it is so close in time to the holiday.
John Fowler/Flickr
This is said to have been the inspiration for the Christmas stars we put on top of our trees. How cool would it be to see the actual thing?
Fernando Arriaga Photography/Flickr
It’s all happening on the night of December 21, 2020, so be sure to look outside if the skies are clear and see something that won’t come around again for many decades!
Sam DeLong/Flickr
Hopefully, the weather will be clear on the winter solstice and we can all enjoy this special bit of Christmas cheer!
Geof Wilson/Flickr
Justin Kern/Flickr
Sam DeLong/Flickr
John Fowler/Flickr
Fernando Arriaga Photography/Flickr
What are your plans for the holidays? It may be a little different this year, but we can all still appreciate what makes Christmas in North Dakota great with our families at home.
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Address: North Dakota, USA
