For lovers of the cosmic and astronomy, September 21st is proving to be a day of special significance. Along with the year’s last solar eclipse, the day will be gifting excited sky watchers with a glimpse at Saturn, a planet that is a point of interest for many.The planet will be closest and brightest it has been to Earth all year, at opposition, meaning Earth will align itself between the ringed planet and the sun, according to NASA. The agency also added that the planet will be so bright that people will be able to look at it with their naked eyes.In a video titled “What’s Up: September 2025 Skywatching Tips from NASA,” the agency stated that Saturn will be “incredibly bright in the sky” and Venus and Jupiter will also be visible in the east.
When and where will Saturn be visible?
Image credits: X
Saturn will be in opposition on Sunday, September 21st, as per NASA. Since there will be a new moon, the moon’s light will not interfere with the sky watcher’s ability to see the planet at night. The planet will be at its brightest, an event that only happens once every 378 days.Those interested in catching a glimpse of the planet should look at the eastern sky in the evening and at the western sky towards early morning.
Tips to watch Saturn
Image credits: Getty Images
According to NASA, no equipment is required to view the planet in all its glory. While it will be visible to the naked eye, a small telescope could definitely enhance the views. Using stargazing apps such as Stellarium or Sky Safari could also come in handy to spot the planet in the night sky.Those planning to watch the planet outdoors should make sure to use insect repellent and check the weather forecast beforehand.
Saturn, solar eclipse and fall equinox
Image credits: Getty Images
September is definitely an important month when it comes to astronomy. Along with Saturn being visible, a partial solar eclipse will also be happening on September 21st. The eclipse will be visible in Australia, Antarctica, the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean.Additionally, on September 22nd, the fall equinox begins, according to NASA. This is when the day and night are of equal length. “The equinox marks the exact moment when the center of the Sun crosses the plane of our planet’s equator,” NASA stated on its website. “The day of an equinox, observers at the equator will see the Sun directly overhead at noon.”