THE night of December 21 each year is considered as the longest night. This year, on Monday, the entire world witnessed conjunction of two biggest planets of the solar system. The celestial phenomenon was a hot topic of debate among scientists, astrologers, astronomers, spiritual persons, religious persons and even common people. A large number of skygazers thronged Raman Science Centre near Gandhisagar to get a telescopic view of the phenomenon. The centre had installed five telescopes for general public at its premises. Huge crowds, mostly comprising students, made a beeline to catch glimpse of the celestial wonder.

 

At one time, the organisers had to close the gates as the number of people kept swelling. Many had to return empty-handed due to the enthusiastic throng. People in the West considered the conjunction as the creation of the first Christmas Star in nearly 800 years. Some astrologers in India had predicted this event occurred in 400 years. While some astrologers told that such alignment happened in 60 years. When ‘The Hitavada’ discussed this celestial phenomenon with some scientists, astronomers and astrologers; scientists and astronomers confirmed that the event occurred in 800 years while astrologers termed that this alignment took place in 60 years. Dr D K Kulkarni, former head of the Department of Physics in Institute of Science said, “On December 21, Jupiter crossed Saturn in Capricorn. Jupiter would not eclipse Saturn because of the difference in orbit plane.

 

In the sky they would appear to be 0.1 degrees apart or 1/5th of the moon’s diameter. With the Sun a little behind in Sagittarius, the great conjunction should be visible above western horizon after sunset.” Dr Kulkarni, who has guided many students in their doctorates in physics, astronomy, astrology and Vedic science, explained, “Astronomically, Jupiter is the largest, and Saturn is the second largest planet in the solar system. As per the Vedic astrology, Jupiter is the blessing, and Saturn is the karmic reward or punishment.

 

Both planets are neutral to each other. Saturn takes two and a half years to transit one sign whereas Jupiter takes one year to transit one sign. Jupiter and Saturn are the slowest moving planets in the sky, and their transit helps to get the most significant consequence for predictive purposes. Jupiter writes the law and Saturn follows that law. Jupiter is principles, and Saturn is discipline.” Elaborating further, Dr Kulkarni said, the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn was last seen in 1961 in Capricorn. It continued till 1962. “Saturn completes its one zodiac cycle in about 30 years and Jupiter takes around twelve years to complete its cycle in all zodiac signs after which it returns to its original place. Thus, their conjunction is considered to be an extraordinary event.

 

The zodiac cycle is based on latitude and longitude. When the longitude is considered, the celestial phenomenon is happening in 59-60 years. On December 21, considering the latitude, the celestial phenomenon has happened after 800 years and this conjunction could be termed as ‘rapt conjunction’. The Jupiter and Saturn in conjunction would appear as if it was one largest star in the sky and it has not occurred on a solstice for 812 years or more,” Dr Kulkarni mentioned.