Two major planets in the solar system will create a striking night sky spectacle this week through a rare astronomical alignment.
Jupiter and Venus are scheduled to appear exceptionally close to one another from Earth's perspective on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.
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Sky and Telescope reports that special equipment is unnecessary for viewing because the planets will shine very brightly.
The apparent proximity of the two celestial bodies is an optical illusion, as they remain separated by millions of miles in space.
Viewers can spot the phenomenon by looking toward the west-northwest horizon between 45 minutes and two hours after sunset.
Mercury is also scheduled to join the display lower on the western horizon two days later.
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NASA reports that the moon will pass directly in front of Venus during the event.
This positioning will cause Venus to temporarily disappear from view for some observers on Earth.
Additional celestial events will follow later in the month, according to space agencies.
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The astronomical summer begins with the solstice on June 21, followed by the Bootid meteor shower on June 27 and a micro Strawberry Moon on June 29.
