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Where and when should you look for the ‘Star of Bethlehem?
To catch this striking sight, head outside a couple of hours after sunset and face the east-northeast sky. Around 8:00 p.m. in any North American time zone is ideal. Jupiter will be impossible to miss, a steady, golden-white light that doesn’t twinkle, as per a report by Forbes.
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You won’t need a telescope or special gear to enjoy the view. Simply find a clear horizon and look east. The planet’s brightness makes it a perfect introduction to skywatching, especially for children already buzzing with Christmas excitement.
What makes Jupiter look like the ‘Christmas Star’?
Jupiter’s steady glow is what makes it feel so special this time of year. Unlike stars, it doesn’t flicker, which gives it an almost otherworldly presence in the night sky. For many families, that calm brightness naturally recalls the biblical “Star of Bethlehem.”
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This week, Jupiter sits in the constellation Gemini, flanked by Castor and Pollux — the “Twins” — just above and to its left. To the upper right, Orion stands out clearly, with the three stars of Orion’s Belt forming an easy guide for young observers learning the sky, as per a report by Forbes.
Why is Jupiter so bright right now?
Jupiter is shining at magnitude -2.6, making it brighter than every star in the night sky. This happens because the planet is nearing opposition, the point when Earth sits directly between Jupiter and the sun.
Since Jupiter takes 11.86 Earth-years to orbit the sun, its brightest appearance comes roughly every 13 months. This timing places one of its most eye-catching displays right in the heart of the Christmas season, adding to the sense of wonder, as per a report by Forbes.
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Could Jupiter really be the Star of Bethlehem?
Despite its brilliance, Jupiter is unlikely to be the actual “Star of Bethlehem” described in the Gospel of Matthew. Ancient skywatchers were well aware of Jupiter’s movements and wouldn’t have been surprised by its brightening, as per a report by Forbes.
More likely explanations suggested by historians and astronomers include a sudden comet, a supernova, or a rare conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn. Still, Jupiter’s glow this Christmas offers a meaningful visual connection to the ancient story.
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FAQs
Do you need a telescope to see the Christmas Star?
No, Jupiter is clearly visible with the naked eye.
What time is best to show kids Jupiter?
Around 8:00 p.m., a few hours after sunset.