Jupiter and Saturn Align For A Once in A Lifetime ‘Christmas Kiss’

Many families may be looking up at the stars this year as they keep an eye out for Santa and his reindeers (otherwise known as the International Space Station) crossing the night sky. However, stargazers could be in for a bonus treat this year, as on the 21st December Jupiter and Saturn are set to appear closer together than they have for centuries in what is being coined a ‘Christmas Kiss’.

Although planetary conjunctions are a common occurrence, this particular phenomenon has not happened in over 800 years and will show the planetary duo shining extremely brightly and very close together. In fact, it is reported that the planets will be so close that they will look like they are one single brightly shining star. Both these giant planets have different and distinct planetary orbits, with Jupiter taking 12 years to complete a cycle and Saturn more than double that, taking some 29 years. There have been opportunities to view similar occurrences in the past, but they have been notably hampered by either weather conditions or poor visibility. In May 2000, the conjunction was difficult to see due to its position in the sky. In 1623, the Perth Observatory revealed that it’s position was too close to the sun and so was hampered by the sun’s glare. It is therefore believed that the last time the great conjunction was viewed clearly was in fact way back in March 1226!

The proximity of this ‘bright star’ so close to Christmas Day has not been lost on many, who have questioned where a previous occurrence of the great conjunction way back in history could have been what is now known as the infamous ‘Star of Bethlehem’ from biblical times. Experts have indicated that it could either have been a previous conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn, or alternatively that of Venus and Jupiter, which in 2BC is believed to have positioned itself near to the direction of Bethlehem.

Stargazers across the globe will be pleased to hear that, weather permitting, the Christmas Kiss will be visible from anywhere on the globe. That said, the best scenes will be present nearer to the equator. The bright light should appear low in the western sky around 60 minutes after sunset. You shouldn’t need a telescope or binoculars, as both planets at this time of year tend to be clearly visible with the naked eye. They have been edging closer as the month has progressed, and so even if you miss out on the spectacular sight on the 21st December, you’ll still be able to check out the closeness of the two planets for the days preceding it.

The stars have often been viewed as having mystical or supernatural impacts on the way of the world, with Mercury in Retrograde being known to reap calamity on everything from mortgage contracts to internet reception and even relationships. Although not based in science, the study of Astrology has been a popular aspect of culture for centuries. It is no surprise therefore, that the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn has significant meaning to astrologists, who believe that it is likely to be one of the most significant events in the astrological calendar during our lifetime. Although the meeting of these planets happens fairly frequently, once every 20 years, this particular meeting is due to take place within the sign of Aquarius which reportedly stands for social change, humanitarian efforts, and justice for all. Earlier this year in March, Saturn briefly passed through Aquarius and we saw the rising Black Lives Matter movement after the death of George Floyd. Further analysis into the astrological trajectory has revealed that the great conjunction will take place at 0 degrees, which represents a brand new beginning. This has been interpreted as the opportunity for society to go back to the drawing board and reconsider issues such as freedom, equality and working for the ‘common good’.

Many have pointed out the juxtaposition of Jupiter and Saturn in Astrology, with Jupiter best known for health, wealth and having a good time and Saturn known for strict responsibility and setting limits. It’s almost like the younger wild child being accompanied by their more responsible and stern parent. In fact, that relationship is further reinforced as astrology believes that Jupiter and Saturn are ‘friends’ but don’t necessarily stand for the same values or perspectives. How these two planets combine and the subsequent effect from an astrological perspective largely depends on where in the birth calendar they meet.

Whether you believe in astrology or not, with all the drama that has unfolded in 2020, it seems fitting that the stars appear to have taken pity on our plight and granted us with a compassionate closure to a tumultuous year, in the form of a festive planetary Christmas Kiss.