Bhopal: Rare astronomical conjunction of Venus and Jupiter to be visible on June 9, what Sarika Gharu told?
Bhopal: Between June 8 and 10, the two brightest planets in the solar system—Venus and Jupiter—will appear extremely close to each other in the western sky. In astronomy, this event is known as a 'conjunction,' with its peak visibility occurring on the evening of June 9.
National Award-winning astronomy communicator Sarika Gharu stated that the two planets will appear to be drawing closer starting June 8 and will reach their minimum angular separation on June 9. At that time, the angular distance between the two planets will be approximately 1.5 to 1.6 degrees.
She explained that although the planets are millions of kilometers apart in space, they will appear almost side-by-side when viewed from Earth. They will appear so close that both planets could fit within the width of a little finger held at arm's length.
According to Sarika Gharu, no telescope or special equipment is required to view this astronomical event. After sunset, looking towards the western sky, Venus will appear shining with a brilliant white light, while Jupiter will be visible nearby with a yellowish-white glow.
She noted that Mercury will also join this alignment between June 11 and 15, creating a beautiful 'planet parade' in the western sky. Subsequently, on June 16 and 17, a crescent moon will also appear near these planets, making the scene even more captivating. Astronomy enthusiasts and the general public are encouraged to observe this rare astronomical event in the western sky during the evenings this week.