LISTEN: "Christmas Star" visible after sunset this evening
Stargazers in KZN and other parts of the country are in for a stellar display tonight as two planets will appear closer to Earth creating what's being called the "Christmas Star".
"It's quite a rare occurrence. It happens relatively frequently but it's fare that we are going to see it. The last time it was this clear was 800 years ago," says Science engagement astronomer at the SA Astronomical Observatory, Dr Daniel Cunnama.
According to NASA, two of the biggest planets in our solar system, Jupiter and Saturn will appear as if they are nearly touching in the night sky. It's a rare astronomical event called the "Great Conjunction."
Cunnama says the duo will be visible after sunset this evening.
"If you look into the west, it will be fairly low on the horizon. So you will need a pretty clear west horizon, no trees or mountains and you will be able to see it quite easily. Two bright objects, very close together and that it what's being called the Christmas start."
Cunnama says the "Great Conjunction" will only take place again in 2080.
