Mars and Jupiter reach their closest apparent separation of 1.2 degrees, offering skywatchers a side-by-side planetary view in the constellation Leo.
The two planets achieve their minimum angular separation at 9:04 p.m. EST on November 15, according to In-The-Sky.org. Because that exact moment occurs while the planets remain below the horizon in the United States, observers can catch the pairing by heading outside around midnight local time as the bodies rise above the eastern horizon, or during pre-sunrise hours on November 15 and 16.
First, plan to look southeast before sunrise on either morning, then choose a safe viewing spot with an open sky away from bright lights and obstructions. Both Mars and Jupiter are superior planets whose orbits exist beyond that of Earth.
“The actual moment of close approach is Monday morning at 5:15 a.m.,” said Director Tim Collins, Buffalo Astronomical Association Board Director.
“After that point, they’re going to start separating again, and Mars will go on its way. So any day before or after that, and then each subsequent day after, you can still get up, go outside if it’s clear, and take a look.” Collins said that if rain holds off, Monday offers the best experience, with additional opportunities running Tuesday through Thursday.
On November 15 and 16, the planets will appear separated by a little over one degree, which equals roughly the width of two full Moons placed side by side. Jupiter shines as a brilliant, star-like point, while Mars displays a reddish-orange tint nearby.
Observers do not need a telescope or binoculars to spot the conjunction, as NASA notes both planets are easily visible to the naked eye. However, optical equipment can enhance the experience.
Collins advises that a pair of binoculars provides an ideal setup for capturing both worlds in a single field of view.
Both bodies are superior planets with orbits existing beyond that of Earth, meaning their disks appear full through a telescope rather than exhibiting moon-like phases.
The blue-white light of the star Regulus glows nearby in the constellation Leo during the event. The alignment marks an appulse, an event occurring every 2 to 2.5 years when Mars overtakes Jupiter in its slower orbit. The two planets will not appear this close again until July 2029.
Do I need a telescope to see the conjunction? NASA confirms that both planets are visible to the naked eye, with Jupiter outshining reddish Mars.
Why do the planets appear close if they are millions of miles apart? The close grouping is a trick of perspective from Earth’s viewpoint, while the physical distance between them spans hundreds of millions of miles.
Earlier coverage: So Close yet so Far: Upcoming Mars, Jupiter Alignment Could Provide Unique Viewing Experience