Mars in opposition: See why the Red Planet will appear closer and brighter
This story was updated to correct inaccurate position of Mars and Earth.
Mars will appear its biggest and brightest this month when it reaches its closest position to Earth while simultaneously being opposite the sun.
The Red Planet will be at its closest point to Earth, also known as perigee, on Jan. 12 and will be exactly opposite the sun on Jan. 15. It will be visible all night long because it will rise with the sunset and set with the sunrise.
What is Mars in opposition?
The Sun is the center of orbit for every planet in the Solar System. The Earth, at times, finds itself in a direct line of sight between the Sun and another planet during these orbits. Mars will be fully illuminated by the sun, providing the best viewing conditions from Earth. This is the when that planet is 'in opposition'.
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Mars' opposition occurs about every two years and coincides with the planet's retrograde motion, which began on Dec. 7 and will end Feb. 23.
Retrograde occurs when a planet appears to be moving backward in the sky from Earth's perspective. Mars retrogrades once every 26 months for about 2½ months, least frequently of the planets in our solar system.
Where to view Mars in opposition
Mars will rise in the east at sunset Jan. 15 and and be visible all night long near the constellation Gemini.
Facts about Mars
Mars is the fourth planet from the sun in our solar system and is called the Red Planet because its abundant iron minerals oxidize, or rust, and make it appear red.
The planet's redness has been well noted throughout time and across civilizations. Mars was named by the Romans after their god of war because of its blood-red color. Egyptians called it "Her Desher," which means "the red one."
Mars takes 687 days, or 1.8 years, to orbit the sun. It has two moons, Phobos and Deimos.
This story was updated to add new information.
More on Mars from Paste BN Graphics:
- How much litter have we amassed on Mars? A look at the Red Planet
- How NASA's Mars Ingenuity became the little helicopter that could
- NASA's Perseverance rover endured 'seven minutes of terror' for successful landing