Look up: Saturn is at its brightest this weekend
Saturn is currently at its brightest and closest point to Earth for the year, an event known as opposition. Astronomers suggest that the planet will be visible throughout the night, with the rings becoming more visible than in previous years.
Why it matters
This provides a rare opportunity for amateur astronomers and the public to observe planetary features without specialized equipment.
, so the rights line plexer's image transform adds to body images has to be built here. Same shape on purpose: "A caption (© WRAL)", or a bare "© WRAL" with no caption. --> © WRAL By Tony Rice, NASA Ambassador Saturn is at its biggest and brightest as the ringed planet reaches opposition this weekend.
Opposition happens as Earth passes between Saturn and the Sun, bringing the planet to its closest point to Earth for the year, about 784 million miles (1.26 billion km) away. This minimum distance makes Saturn appear brighter than at any other time this year.
Opposition is a great time to observe Saturn because it rises in the east around sunset, reaches its highest point around midnight, and remains visible through dawn. It will appear as a yellowish point of light in the eastern and southeastern sky.
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