Astronomers, astrophotographers and space enthusiasts have long been fascinated by Saturn and its legendary rings. However, the window for appreciating their opulence is narrowing. Saturn’s intricate rings are gradually disappearing and by 2025 they will no longer be visible from Earth. However, they will be visible again in 2032.
Saturn’s iconic rings will become invisible from 2025 (Photo)
Why are Saturn’s rings ‘disappearing’?
According to Earth.com, “Saturn will line up edge-on with Earth, making its beautiful rings virtually invisible. It’s akin to trying to spot a sheet of paper by the edge when it’s placed at the far end of a football field.” (Also Read: Nasa Shares Stunning Images Of Cosmic ‘Hand’. It Has ‘Bones’)
Although the rings are incredibly wide, typically 30 feet high, every 15 years the rings become almost invisible, giving the impression that they have disappeared. This phenomenon is called Saturn’s equinox. The last time this astronomical event occurred was in September 2009. The next equinox is expected on May 6, 2025, according to the European Space Agency.
Will Saturn’s rings ever be visible again?
Yes, those rings will be visible again, but in 2032 Saturn will tilt progressively as it continues its 29.5-year orbital dance, revealing its rings on the far side once more. The peak of this display will be in 2032.
More about Saturn’s rings:
According to NASA, Saturn’s rings form huge and complex structures. Most of the particles in Saturn’s rings are made of water ice and range in size from microns to tens of meters. The rings show a remarkable amount of structure at all scales; much of this structure is still unknown, but is thought to be related to gravitational interactions with Saturn’s many moons.
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Source: newstars.edu.vn