Kokonaissuuria

Kokonaissuuria, also known as the "Great Conjunction" or "Christmas Star," refers to the rare astronomical event where the planets Jupiter and Saturn appear exceptionally close to each other in the night sky. This phenomenon occurs approximately every 20 years due to the orbital periods of the two planets. The term "kokonaissuuria" is Finnish, translating to "great conjunction" in English.

The most recent kokonaissuuria took place on December 21, 2020, and was visible from Earth as a bright, single point of light in the southwestern sky just after sunset. The event was particularly notable because the two planets were so close together that they appeared as a single, bright star to the naked eye. This alignment was the closest since 1623 and will not be surpassed until 2080.

The significance of kokonaissuuria has been recognized throughout history, with various cultures interpreting the event as a symbol of unity, renewal, or even a divine message. In modern times, the event has sparked interest in astronomy and has been widely photographed and shared on social media.

The next kokonaissuuria is expected to occur on March 15, 2080, providing another opportunity for astronomers and stargazers to witness this rare celestial event. The alignment of Jupiter and Saturn during a kokonaissuuria is a reminder of the vastness and beauty of our solar system.