Mars will be unusually close to Earth today: Here's how to spot it
Don't forget to take a second, breathe, and look in the sky today.
Mars will be unusually close to Earth, making it a great day for stargazing.
According to NASA, the red planet will "only" be 38.6 million miles away, which is a one- or two-time occurrence that happens every 15 years.
Mars' orbit is in a perfect position that allows the planet to be visible in the southern sky without a telescope. The sci-fi inspiring planet will glow a reddish-orange aura, according to the Weather Channel.
Mars will be closest to Michigan around 10 a.m., according to nonprofit astronomy group EartkSky. However, you'll still be able to spot Earth's cosmic neighbor throughout the day and later in the evening.
To see Mars from your own backyard, use a sky chart to pinpoint where the planet exactly is. Since the forecast looks pretty clear, Mars should be visible in Michigan.
Mars and Earth are in opposition to each other, meaning the Earth's orbit is perfectly between the sun and Mars. This phenomenon is what helps Mars get closer to the Earth and appear brighter.
This orbit lineup for Earth and Mars happens every two years, according to NASA. However, this "short" distance between Earth and Mars won't happen for another 15 years or at least until 2035.
If you miss gazing at the sky tonight, don't worry. Mars will be visible for most of October, although the planet won't appear as vibrant and bright as it will today.
Contact Slone Terranella: email@example.com and follow her on Twitter @SloneTerranella.
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