Democracy Dies in Darkness
Capital Weather Gang

Monday night features the Jupiter and Saturn ‘double planet.’ Here’s how to see it.

Clouds may obscure viewing in the northern and southern U.S., with better prospects in the nation’s midsection

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December 21, 2020 at 12:15 p.m. EST
Jupiter and Saturn on Dec. 21, met in the night sky and appeared the closest they have in more than 800 years, an event known as the "great conjunction." (Video: @aer0nautix via Storyful)

On Monday night, Jupiter and Saturn will pair up in the southwestern sky, appearing closer than they have in more than 800 years in some areas. It’s officially known as a “great conjunction,” but many are hailing it as a “Christmas star,” the spectacle coinciding with the winter solstice.

The cosmic rendezvous will be most prominently visible during twilight in the two hours immediately after sunset. Thereafter, the duo will disappear below the horizon.