Christmas 2024: Venus, Jupiter, Mars as Potential "Star of Bethlehem"

During this week, three remarkable planets have emerged, vying to be the year's "Star of Bethlehem" or "Christmas Star." Jupiter, Mars, and Venus are all shining brightly, captivating the night sky.

Unravel the Mysterious Christmas Star

Christmas Star: The Eastern and Western Celestial Phenomenon

The legend of a bright star guiding the wise men to Jesus Christ's birth is a fascinating tale. For centuries, astronomers have pondered over this celestial event. While some theories suggest it could be a comet or a supernova, there's a strong possibility it was either Venus, the brightest planet, or a conjunction of two planets. Currently, Jupiter is the bright star in the east, rising higher each night. Mars can be seen in the east about two hours after sunset, with its golden light shining below Jupiter. Venus, on the other hand, is visible in the west, shining brightly as the "Evening Star" at -4.1 mag. It gets close to Earth every 19 months and will reach its brightest in the evening sky at -4.5 mag on February 16, 2025. After that, it will sink into the sun's glare and emerge as the bright "Morning Star" on April 22, 2025.

Christmas Star: Venus - The Brilliant Evening and Morning Presence

Looking to the west as soon as it gets dark, you'll spot Venus with clear skies. It's currently shining brightly and provides more evidence as to its potential as the "Star of Bethlehem." On January 18, 2025, Saturn and Venus will shine close to each other in the west. This celestial event adds to the mystery and allure of Venus.

Christmas Star: Jupiter - The Majestic Eastern Beacon

Jupiter has been a prominent sight in the east in recent weeks. It reached opposition on December 7, reaching its closest position to Earth and becoming the biggest and brightest for the year. This month and much of January, Jupiter will be visible all night, reaching its highest in the sky just after midnight. Currently shining at -2.7 mag, it easily could have been the "Star of Bethlehem."

Christmas Star: Mars - The Golden Glow in the East

Looking east about two hours after sunset this month, you'll see the golden light of Mars rising below Jupiter. It's currently shining at only -0.8 mag but will get brighter. On January 12, 2025, it will make its closest approach to Earth since 2022 and enter its annual opposition three days later, shining at -1.4 mag. Although it may not be bright enough to be considered a potential "Star of Bethlehem," its golden glow when close to opposition is a captivating sight.Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes as you explore these celestial wonders.