PHOTOGRAPHING CONJUNCTIONS: WHEN PLANETS ALIGN IN THE SKY

The night sky has always been a source of fascination for humans, with its twinkling stars, majestic planets, and occasional spectacular events like planetary conjunctions. A conjunction occurs when two or more celestial bodies, such as planets, moons, or stars, appear to align in the sky, creating a breathtaking visual spectacle. For photographers, capturing these rare events can be a thrilling experience, offering a unique opportunity to freeze the moment and preserve the beauty of the universe. In this article, we'll explore the world of photographing conjunctions, providing tips and techniques for capturing these celestial alignments.

- ANIRUDH IYER

What are Conjunctions?

A conjunction occurs when two or more celestial bodies appear to be close to each other in the sky, often forming a striking visual pattern. This apparent alignment is an optical illusion caused by the perspective from Earth. The most common type of conjunction involves planets, which can appear aligned due to their orbits around the Sun. The frequency and timing of conjunctions depend on the orbital periods of the planets involved, with some events occurring more frequently than others. For example, the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn, known as a “Great Conjunction”, occurs approximately every 20 years, while the alignment of Venus and Mars happens more frequently, about every 2-3 years.

These celestial alignments are not limited to planets. The Moon, stars, and even man-made satellites can play a role in creating stunning conjunctions that captivate the imagination of both casual stargazers and avid astrophotographers.

Types of Conjunctions

There are several types of conjunctions that can be photographed, each with its unique characteristics and challenges:

1. Planetary Conjunctions

Planetary conjunctions involve two or more planets appearing close to each other in the sky. Examples include the Jupiter-Saturn conjunction, the Venus-Mars conjunction, and the Mercury-Venus conjunction. These events often showcase bright planets in vibrant colours, creating visually striking images.

2. Lunar Conjunctions

Lunar conjunctions occur when the Moon appears to align with a planet or a star. These can be particularly striking, as the Moon’s bright light creates a beautiful contrast against the dark sky. The presence of lunar craters adds texture and depth to the image.