2020 will forever go down in history and not just because of the pandemic or election. It will also be remembered as the year an extremely rare celestial event took place. The upcoming show in the sky is quickly approaching, and you don’t want to miss it since it’s something that hasn’t happened in nearly 800 years! Take a look:

On December 21st, the “Christmas Star” or the “Star of Bethlehem," will brighten up the Mississippi sky.

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During the can’t-miss celestial event, which astronomers have dubbed the Great Conjunction of 2020, Jupiter and Saturn will appear to merge into one large, bright star – hence the name Christmas Star.

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In astronomy, a conjunction is the meeting or passing of two or more celestial bodies.

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A common occurrence, they happen throughout the year as the moon regularly aligns with several planets and bright stars.

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But the upcoming conjunction is anything but ordinary, and that’s because it involves Jupiter and Saturn – two of the biggest, brightest planets.

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Just how rare are we talking about? The last time Jupiter and Saturn lined up so closely was in the 1200s! What’s more, the two planets won’t be in such close proximity again until 2080.

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Viewing the upcoming celestial show is easy - simply look toward the southwest portion of the sky about 45 minutes after sunset on December 21st.

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A telescope isn’t necessary; however, if you choose to use one, you’ll be treated to views of Jupiter’s four moons — Europa, Io, Callisto, and Ganymede.

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Detailed vistas of Saturn and its trademark rings are another perk of using a telescope.

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So, did you know about this upcoming celestial event? Do you plan on checking it out? Tell us in the comments section.

This isn’t the only must-see of the Christmas season. Read about another here.

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