The planets align for the first time since 2003

CARTERVILLE, IL – We all remember the total solar eclipse that captivated our attention in August of last year. Soon, people across the country will be able to experience another astronomical phenomenon -Mars will be in opposition.

This means that the sun, the Earth and Mars will be aligned, with Mars and the sun on opposite sides of the Earth. According to NASA, Mars will appear brighter in 2018 from July 27 to July 30, and Mars will have its closest approach to July 31. During this time, you will see four planets closer than normal.

Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn will be 36 million miles away – the closest they've been to Earth since 2003. The President of the Southern Illinois Astronomy Association Harry Treece said that there would be a lot to see.

be very tall in the sky. It will look big in your eyes, bigger than even the planets Venus and Jupiter, which are the brightest evening star that people see most of the time, "said Treece.

" As the sun goes down East, the first planet you will see is Venus. If you look to the south, the next bright one that will rise will be Jupiter, "says Treece.

You can experience the nearness of the planets right now, but Friday Southern Illinois University Carbondale will be the host. an event at its Dark Site Observatory.People will have a great view of some details on Mars.

"Unfortunately, there are dust storms on Mars, so some details are not there. But, we will be able to see the polar ice caps on Mars through telescopes, "said Treece.You do not need a high-powered telescope to take advantage of the opposition.You will be able to see the polar ice caps on Mars through telescopes," said Treece. can use your own binoculars.

"We are only a small part of this great picture of our solar system and, beyond, the universe," said Treece,

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You can see the opposition to the UES on Friday, July 27th at the UES Farms.The event starts at 8:30 pm until midnight.C & # 39; Is free and open to the public.

If you miss it this week, the planets will still be close enough to be seen in August.You can find more information about the Southern Astronomical Association of Illinois by visiting: http://astroaasi.org