Distances in astronomy are vast, but three orbital alignments this month bring us unusually close to the moon, the sun, and Jupiter. On Jan. 2, the full moon occurs as the moon reaches its closest point to Earth, making it appear slightly larger and brighter than it typically does. The next morning, Jan. 3, Earth arrives at perihelion, the point in orbit when we’re nearest the sun. Earth makes its closest pass by Jupiter after dark on Jan. 9, as the gas giant moves into opposition, positioned on the opposite side of the sky from the sun. Look up this month and enjoy the sense of being a little nearer to it all.
Each month, Rancho Mirage Observatory astronomer Eric McLaughlin spotlights a notable celestial event. The observatory is open for tours and stargazing. For details, visit ranchomiragelibrary.org/observatory.
