Venus and Jupiter are about to get up close and personal in our skies.
The two planets – the brightest in our solar system – have been steadily approaching each other for the past several August nights. Now, the next two nights should be when Venus and Jupiter appear to be the closest to one another – from Earth’s vantage, at least – during their monthlong planetary conjunction.
The rendezvous between Venus and the gas giant Jupiter, our solar system’s largest planet, is among the top stargazing highlights for the month of August, NASA said in a monthly skywatching guide. Celestial observers can also spot the so-called “dumbbell nebula” in the skies throughout the month.
The best news for skygazers? Spotting Venus and Jupiter in the sky shouldn’t require any special equipment or much astronomical expertise.
Here’s what to know about the Venus-Jupiter conjunction, and how to see the two bright planets in August:
What is a planetary conjunction?
A planetary conjunction is an astronomical event in which at least two planets – sometimes more – appear to our vantage from Earth to be close together in the sky.
Even though the planets are in reality still tens of millions of miles apart, the events present a special opportunity for astronomers and casual stargazers to see multiple worlds in our solar system at one time.
So, what causes conjunctions to take place?
As planets in our solar system orbit the sun at varying speeds, sometimes their orbital paths bring them close together on the same side of the sun. When this event lines up with our view from Earth, we get a conjunction, according to the nonprofit Planetary Society.
Jupiter-Venus conjunction: Will the planets be visible in August?
Venus and Jupiter are making their close approaches to one another and will shine brightly to the east before sunrise throughout August, according to NASA.
When will Venus, Jupiter make their close approach?
The planets should appear closest to one another between Aug. 11 and 12. What’s more, Venus and Jupiter’s cosmic rendezvous should take place against a backdrop of bright stars – including Orion, Taurus, Gemini and Sirius, according to NASA.
A crescent moon, appearing as a thin sliver, should even join the planets in the sky after they separate again Aug. 19-20.
How to see Venus, Jupiter conjunction in August
While telescopes certainly will enhance the view, spectators don’t necessarily need any equipment to spot Venus and Jupiter in the predawn sky from the Northern Hemisphere.
Why? After the sun and moon, they’re the two brightest objects in our solar system.
Seek out locations with unobstructed views of the horizon and check the weather forecast to ensure skies will be clear. Then, simply look to the east to find what will appear as two uncommonly bright stars, and you’re likely looking at the two planets.
Eric Lagatta is the Space Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at elagatta@gannett.c
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Can you see Jupiter, Venus together? Planets make closest approach
