There’s no denying that this has been a tough year for most people. Unexpected changes to our daily lives has turned things upside down. That’s why we’re especially grateful for the things that remind us how much beauty really does exist all around us. This month a special celestial occurrence will really close out this year in a wonderful way. Remember that this is rare so you won’t want to miss it!
The Christmas holiday evokes images of lights twinkling and stars on a tree. That’s one of the most magical things about this time of year.
manc / Flickr
On its own, that’s pretty special. But a rare celestial occurrence will take things from magical to extra-special this year. A once-in-a-lifetime event will take place overhead on December 21st, 2020.
Vidmar Fernandes / 500px / Getty Images
For the first time since the year 1226, Jupiter and Saturn will align in such a way that they will appear to glow like one big star.
dianasch / Flickr
This close proximity is so intense that it can be seen by the naked eye.
Haitong Yu / Moment / Getty Images
The two planets typically align every 20 years or so, but this is the first time in nearly 800 years!
Mark Newman / The Image Bank / Getty Images
And with Christmas just a few days later, the timing of this beautiful event couldn’t be more perfect. For that reason the phenomenon is being referred to as the Christmas Star or the Star of Bethlehem.
Xuanyu Han / Moment / Getty Images
As long as the sky is relatively cloudless, viewing should be simple. But be sure to get outside at twilight, just after sunset when the star will be at it’s strongest and most visible.
dianasch / Flickr While the fun part is that the two planets will appear to be one large start, if you have access to a telescope you might even be able to see them distinctly which is also pretty cool. You may even be able to see their moons!
However you view things be sure to enjoy it. Even if things are cloudy, take some time to take a walk and appreciate all the beauty that’s taking place right above you!
And if you’re looking for more ways to find magic in the season, there’s nothing more special than an evening on this three-acre natural ice skating rink in New Hampshire!
manc / Flickr
Vidmar Fernandes / 500px / Getty Images
dianasch / Flickr
Haitong Yu / Moment / Getty Images
Mark Newman / The Image Bank / Getty Images
Xuanyu Han / Moment / Getty Images
While the fun part is that the two planets will appear to be one large start, if you have access to a telescope you might even be able to see them distinctly which is also pretty cool. You may even be able to see their moons!
However you view things be sure to enjoy it. Even if things are cloudy, take some time to take a walk and appreciate all the beauty that’s taking place right above you!
And speaking of special things to enjoy, be sure to sign up for the Bucket List Newsletter if you haven’t already. We’ll send you a weekly peek at some of the absolute best destinations around the United States. Interested? Then click here to subscribe!
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