Astronomers have long debated the origins of the Star of Bethlehem, also known as “Christmas Star.” Now, a new theory suggests that the phenomenon may be explained by a planetary conjunction between Jupiter and Saturn. This year’s alignment occurs just before Christmas and will be visible in the night sky throughout December.
According to experts, Jupiter at opposition is a possible explanation for the Star of Bethlehem. During this event, one of the stationary points could have occurred when Jupiter was directly overhead at Bethlehem on several nights around Jesus’ birth. The Royal Museums Greenwich notes that this alignment would have been visible from Earth.
Jupiter will be at its brightest in December, making it a prime candidate to shine bright during the holiday season. The gas giant’s closest approach to Earth occurs just before Christmas, with NASA predicting that it will rise in the east-northeast by Saturday night. This year’s alignment is significant not only for astronomers but also for those looking for a celestial wonder to mark the festive season.
Source: https://www.foxweather.com/earth-space/jupiter-opposition-christmas-star