Skywatchers in Saudi Arabia are in for a celestial treat this week!

On Thursday, Jupiter and Mars will appear to converge in the pre-dawn sky, offering a rare planetary alignment that has enthusiasts buzzing. The Jeddah Astronomy Society is leading the charge, encouraging people across the Kingdom to catch a glimpse of this spectacular event.

A once-in-a-decade opportunity!

Jeddah Astronomy Society: Skywatchers Set for Rare Planetary Encounter.https://t.co/Whg1Ia104o#SPAGOV pic.twitter.com/nnqcIOoPMC

— SPAENG (@Spa_Eng) August 13, 2024

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Majed Abu Zahra, the head of the Jeddah Astronomy Society, describes this alignment as a “once-in-a-decade opportunity.” The two planets will be so close together, separated by just 0.3 degrees, that they’ll seem almost as if they’re touching. While this might look magical, it’s important to remember it’s just an optical illusion—Mars and Jupiter are still millions of miles apart.

Abu Zahra adds that this unique view won’t happen again until December 2033, making it a must-see event for stargazers.

For those with telescopes, the experience will be even more remarkable

The Jeddah Astronomy Society notes that Jupiter’s four largest moons will also be visible, adding an extra layer of excitement. Abu Zahra points out that this is a “dream come true for astrophotographers,” as capturing both planets and their moons in a single frame will create some stunning images.

Even astronomers like Waleed Jameel in Riyadh are eagerly anticipating this event

He’s excited to share the experience with friends, calling it a “special opportunity” to witness a rare planetary encounter. While the last big event of this kind was the Great Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn in 2020, where they were just 0.1 degrees apart, this week’s alignment of Jupiter and Mars promises to be just as memorable.

Mark your calendars and set your alarms—this is one sky show you won’t want to miss!