After Mercury's display of might against the blazing sun during the Mercury transit, the world will see another planet showcase its splendor. Mars will shine its brightest shade of red from May 22 until May 30. The red planet will be closest to Earth, allowing people to see a bigger and brighter Mars by looking into a telescope.
This rare event is highly anticipated. The elusive nature of Mars is due to its size, and its distance from the Earth which is usually far. From May 22 until May 30, Mars will be closest to Earth than it had been for 10 years according to SkyandTelescope.com.
NASA explained Mars opposition by saying that both the Earth and Mars orbit the sun. Two full circle for Earth is equivalent to one full orbit of Mars around the Sun. Because of this, sometimes Earth and Mars are in the opposite side and farthest from each other while at times, both planets can be on the same side and nearest to each other.
During this time, Mars and the Sun are on opposite side of the Earth. With Mars close to Earth, both celestial bodies can be seen rising and setting almost at the same time. The best window to witness this phenomenon is during sunset. Because Mars will rise on the east while the sun sets in the west almost simultaneously.
According to NASA, the last Mars opposition happened in 2003 which is by far the closest Mars approach in 60,000 years. The agency also added that the changing orbit of Mars will eventually bring the planet closer to Earth in the year 2287.
To be able to witness Mars on its biggest and brightest state, it is better to get the biggest telescope possible. According to Astronomy.com, a 4-inch or a 6-inch telescope will do. Filters are also suggested to get a clearer view of the planet. Although a very small speck can be seen by the naked eye, it is best to use a telescope or better yet proceed to an observatory instead.
A live feed will also be streamed online through this website.