Here’s what I’ve learned:
– Jupiter-Saturn conjunctions happens every 20 years, but this one is the closest one since 1623 (almost 400 years ago) and the closest observable one since 1226 (almost 800 years ago.)
– 2020’s extra close Jupiter-Saturn conjunction won’t be matched again until March 15, 2080 and then not again until after 2400.
– Jupiter is the brighter planet in the photo, on the left and Saturn is on the right.  They just switched places today.
– I took these photos 45-60 minutes after sunset in the southwestern sky.
– My lens only goes to 250mm on a crop sensor 😦 so the dots are the best I could get. The streak in the one photo was a plane going by.
– I think the planets will remain in close alignment for the next few days and will still be easily visible to the naked eye when looking toward the southwest just after sunset.
– Check them out if you haven’t already and if you have binoculars or a small telescope, you may be able to see Jupiter’s four large moons orbiting the giant planet.

10 responses to “The Great Conjunction aka Christmas Star”

  1. Joe Avatar

    Nice shots. I tried with my kit lens and couldn’t get a good image. Have a great holiday 😀

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    1. Sheila Avatar

      Thanks, would have like to have had a 400mm for this one. Happy holidays to you!

      Like

  2. buddy71 Avatar

    My 70-300 zoom at the 300 (crop at 450) did not get any better a shot than yours. But you are right…they will still be visible in closeness for days to come.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Sheila Avatar

      All the really good pictures I’m seeing were taken through the view of a telescope.

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      1. Sheila Avatar

        It was still fun to take them and to know I have pictures of my own of such a rare event.

        Like

  3. TJ Fox Avatar

    I really didn’t expect to get anything other than some bright dots, but was stunned when I realized I also picked up 3 of Jupiter’s moons. So glad it wasn’t cloudy here!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Sheila Avatar

      That’s exciting!

      Liked by 1 person

  4. mihrankalaydjianblog Avatar

    Very joyful holidays to you – These are great shots and incredible photos:)

    Liked by 1 person

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