Astronomy enthusiasts will be in for an extraordinary sight tonight as Saturn will appear bigger and brighter than usual.
A rare show will take place in the sky tonight PHOTO Archive
Such a spectacle only happens once a year, so get ready now or you’ll have to wait until 2025, according to The Sun.
However, next year is another exciting time to watch for Saturn.
On March 23, 2025, Saturn’s distinctive rings are set to disappear. These rings are composed of billions of fragments of dust, ice and rock.
Because of the angle from which we see them and the tilt of the planet, the rings will appear invisible, creating an optical illusion. Until then, this weekend gives us a bright Saturn in the sky.
This phenomenon is due to an annual occurrence known as opposition, a process by which the Earth comes directly between the Sun and another planet.
As a result, Saturn will be easily visible throughout September. The best time to see it is in the early hours of Sunday (September 8).
How you can enjoy the show
For the best chance of seeing the gas giant clearly, make sure you’re in a dark place away from the lights of cities and towns.
It will also depend on the weather in your area, so don’t forget to check the local forecast beforehand.
Although you’ll be able to see the planet itself, you’ll need a telescope to see Saturn’s rings.
Those who miss this opportunity with Saturn will be happy to know that the planets will also come into opposition in the next few months.
Neptune will be on September 21st, Uranus on November 17th and Jupiter on December 7th.
