Mars opposition and it's closest approach to Earth is currently in process. Earth and Mars align in opposition together with the sun every 2 years. This is when NASA typically launches any missions to that planet since it is as close as it will get.
On Friday, 07/31/2018 at around 4am EST Mars will be the closest it has been to Earth since 2003. It will be roughly 35 million miles away. Normally it is between 140-250 million miles away.
The next closest approach will be in October 2020, and the next super-close opposition will be in September 2035.
So, if weather permitting, grab a set of binoculars or your telescope and get out and see this amazing event!
On Friday, 07/31/2018 at around 4am EST Mars will be the closest it has been to Earth since 2003. It will be roughly 35 million miles away. Normally it is between 140-250 million miles away.
The next closest approach will be in October 2020, and the next super-close opposition will be in September 2035.
So, if weather permitting, grab a set of binoculars or your telescope and get out and see this amazing event!
