Winter Solstice 2020 saw a Rare Astronomical Event
The Great Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn
December 21, 2020, marked the Winter Solstice in the northern hemisphere, which is the shortest day and longest night of the year. It is also when the sun is at its lowest daily maximum elevation. The exact opposite happens in the southern hemisphere, where it is called the December Solstice or Summer Solstice.
The Great Conjunction occurs when Jupiter and Saturn align from the perspective of the Earth. This vibrant planetary conjunction which occurred December 21, 2020, is also referred to as the Christmas Star. It’s been nearly 400 years since the planets passed this close to each other in the sky, and nearly 800 years since the alignment of Saturn and Jupiter occurred at night, as it did December 21, 2020, allowing nearly everyone around the world to witness the “great conjunction.”
This event was easily visible for a few nights. Download this free handout and write about this event. Learn more about The Great Conjunction here.
