Get ready, stargazers!

On January 16, the Red Planet will grace the skies of Singapore, showcasing its brightest and most visible appearance since December 2022, provided the weather cooperates.

What is Mars in Opposition?

This stunning celestial event, known as Mars in opposition, occurs when Earth sits directly between Mars and the Sun. At this moment, Mars is at its closest approach to our planet for the year, fully illuminated by sunlight, according to The Observatory at Science Centre Singapore.

The last time Mars went into opposition was on December 8, 2022, and it'll be nearly five years before it occurs again on February 19, 2027, with another opportunity on March 25, 2029. This is a rare chance you won't want to miss!

When and How to Catch a Glimpse of Mars

Mars will begin to rise around 7:30 PM on January 16. By approximately 8:30 PM, it will be at an "easily appreciable height," making it perfect for viewing after sunset. The planet will reach its highest point in the sky around 1 AM on January 17, offering the best opportunity to take in its brilliance.

Looking for the best viewing spots? The Observatory suggests heading to open public spaces like Marina Barrage, East Coast Park, or the Southern Ridges for an unobstructed view of the sky. Under clear conditions, Mars will be visible to the naked eye, appearing as a striking reddish star.

"During opposition, Mars is closest to Earth, making it appear larger and brighter," the Observatory explained. For those who want to delve deeper, using a telescope can unveil fascinating details on the planet's surface. Just remember, visibility may depend on local atmospheric conditions, so pick your spot wisely!

A Stellar Opportunity & What Comes Next

While the Science Centre Observatory (SCOB) won’t be organizing a dedicated viewing session for this opposition, visitors are encouraged to join the public Stargazing and Digital Planetarium live show on January 17, contingent on clear skies. Tickets for this exciting experience can be booked online.

But how often does this happen? Mars opposition occurs approximately every two years as it takes Mars that long to orbit the Sun. This fascinating celestial dance means that Earth and Mars align every two years, bringing them remarkably close.

If you miss Mars this time, don't worry! The heavens are full of wonders, with upcoming sights like the Eta Aquarids meteor shower, peaking in May, and a total lunar eclipse set for September.

So, mark your calendars, grab your cameras, and prepare to capture the mesmerizing beauty of Mars! Who knows? You might even get featured in the next celestial news round-up! 🌌✨