Virtual Telescope Project Livestreams Jupiter-Venus Conjunction at 19:30 GMT as Planets Close to Under 2 Degrees

Q: After Venus and Jupiter's close approach, what rare 'planet parade' will soon follow in the evening sky?

A rare mini “planet parade” of Venus, Jupiter and Mercury will follow in the evening sky. After tonight’s close Venus-Jupiter conjunction, Mercury is expected to join them from about June 11 to June 15, creating a three-planet lineup low in the western sky after sunset. Venus will remain the brightest object, Jupiter will sit nearby, and Mercury will appear lower and fainter near the horizon. Skywatchers will need a clear western view because Mercury will be harder to spot in the twilight. The waning crescent Moon may also add to the scene without overpowering the planets. Astronomers describe this as an uncommon and especially attractive early-evening alignment, with the three planets appearing strung out across the west.

3 articles · Updated · Space.com · Jun 9

19:30 GMT marks the start of the Virtual Telescope Project’s live broadcast of Jupiter and Venus from robotic telescopes in Manciano, Italy, with viewing dependent on local weather.
Less than 2 degrees will separate the planets in the western sky on June 9, placing Venus just above and to the right of Jupiter in a tight sunset conjunction.
Mercury will also appear lower right of the pair, though its glow may be harder to pick out against the bright twilight.
The conjunction is the peak of weeks of apparent approach in the evening sky, after which Jupiter and Venus will begin drifting farther apart again.