In the vast expanse of our solar system, there are countless celestial wonders, and the 21st century holds a series of extraordinary events that will captivate stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts.
Asteroid Apophis: A Close Encounter in 2029
In 2029, our celestial neighborhood will witness the close passage of a celestial giant, named 99942 Apophis. With a formidable diameter of approximately 1,200 feet, this asteroid was discovered by NASA in 2004 and initially marked as one of the most perilous objects orbiting the Sun. NASA initially highlighted Apophis’ notoriety, gaining attention as a potential threat to Earth due to predictions of an uncomfortably close encounter five years later. Subsequent observations, however, alleviated concerns, revealing no risk of impact.
Planetary Parade in 2040: A Celestial Alignment
Coined as the “parade of planets,” this extraordinary event occurs when all the planets align, creating a mesmerizing display in the night sky. Jupiter and Venus, usually visible to the naked eye even in urban areas, will be joined by their celestial companions. NASA predicts that on September 8, 2040, Mars, Mercury, Venus, Saturn, and Jupiter will form this cosmic alignment, offering a rare opportunity to observe all the planets in their synchronized dance.
Brightest Supermoon of 2052: A Lunar Marvel
In 2052, the Moon will treat Earth’s inhabitants to a celestial show of grand proportions. The moon’s elliptical orbit will bring it exceptionally close to our planet, creating a ‘supermoon’. On December 6, 2052, the moon will be positioned a remarkable 17,000 miles closer than usual. During this lunar event, the moon will appear 30% brighter than usual and it promises a breathtaking display.
Comet 15P/Finlay’s Arrival in 2060
On October 27, 2060, Comet 15P/Finlay will grace the night sky in one of the closest approaches to Earth in the last hundred years. Discovered in the 19th century, this comet will pass by at a distance of a mere 4.6 million miles. Comet 15P/Finlay completes one orbit around the sun every 2,380 days, which is equivalent to 6.52 years.
Earth Eclipse in 2084: A Martian Spectacle
In 2084, a spectacular cosmic event known as the “Earth eclipse” will occur. This will be visible not from Earth but from Mars. In November 2084, Earth and the Moon will pass by the Sun from the Martian perspective, creating a mesmerizing silhouette against the bright solar disk. It was in 1984 that such an event occurred previously.