Venus aligning with Earth and sun this weekend

On Saturday, March 22, 2025, Venus will undergo an inferior conjunction, an astronomical event where the planet aligns directly between the Earth and the sun. This alignment occurs approximately every 19 months due to the orbital patterns of both Venus and Earth. The exact moment of this conjunction will take place around 9 p.m. EDT. Observing this event may prove challenging for amateur astronomers as the glare of the sun makes it nearly impossible to see Venus without specialized equipment. Experts from Chicago's Adler Planetarium, such as Michelle Nichols, highlight the difficulties that arise from the sun’s brightness. While this weekend's conjunction won't provide a stunning visual display, it offers a unique opportunity for scientific observation and understanding of the dynamics of celestial bodies within our solar system. In the days leading up to the conjunction, Venus can be glimpsed shortly after sunset, appearing as a thin crescent before disappearing from view. Following the conjunction, observers will have the chance to see Venus again in the morning sky before sunrise. This periodic visibility change is due to the phases Venus undergoes, similar to lunar phases, which can only be comprehended through telescopic observation. Upcoming NASA missions are set to further investigate Venus, shedding light on its formation and the vast differences that have led it to be such a unique planet in comparison to Earth. Notably, Paul McCartney’s song "The Kiss of Venus" was inspired by literature surrounding this celestial event, illustrating the cultural significance of Venus in addition to its scientific importance.