Christmas Star will be visible in Mid-MO this weekend
While looking at holiday lights over the next few nights you might catch a glimpse of a bright spot in the sky above. The 'Christmas star' will be bright enough to see with just your eyes as Jupiter moves closer in orbit in the coming weeks.
Many are likely familiar with the Biblical story of a star guiding three magi (or "wise men") to Bethlehem to meet the newborn Jesus. Astronomers say this story could have scientific explanations for what the wise men saw.
About every 13 months Jupiter goes into opposition when it is closest to Earth in orbit. This makes it appear brighter in the sky and is one of several potential explanations for the Christmas star.
The wise men may have observed a conjunction between Jupiter and Saturn, Jupiter and Venus, or a supernova.
This year's Christmas star will be almost directly overhead and is visible with just your eyes. You may have already noticed a brighter star in the sky above the last few nights as well. Next to the Christmas star, Jupiter, you will see Venus shining almost just as bright.
A stunning crescent moon will also be visible with the moon reaching its first quarter phase (when it appears half full) by the end of the weekend. Friday and Saturday nights will offer the best visibility in Mid-MO ahead of clouds on Sunday.
