Saturday, March 22, 2025

Is that Saturn?

On Sunday, March 23, a rare celestial event will temporarily cause Saturn’s rings to seemingly vanish from view. Known as a ring plane crossing, it is the result of the planet’s tilt and orbital mechanics. Because they are incredibly thin compared to their vast width, they become nearly invisible when viewed from the side. So, for a few days before and after the 23rd, Saturn would appear to look like Jupiter.

Simulation from Stellarium

However, you would need a telescope and really excellent sky conditions to see this event, since Saturn is so close to the sun. The rings should reappear soon and will be getting wider as the years march on, fully opening again in 2032.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Comet 3I/ATLAS now leaving the Solar System

When Comet 3I/ATLAS streaked into our solar system in 2025, it became only the third confirmed interstellar visitor ever observed. Discovere...