"
Conjunction" is a term used in
positional astronomy. If a
superior planet is on the opposite side of a
solar system, from a relatively
inferior planet; then, the planets are in a
superior conjunction. An
inferior conjunction occurs when two planets lie in a
line; on the same side of their
Sun. When conjunctions occur, the involved planets are close to one another when viewed upon the
celestial sphere.
In an inferior conjunction, the superior planet is "at opposition" to the inferior planet.
In Spring
2002, a rare
grand conjunction occurred; in which
Saturn,
Jupiter,
Mars,
Venus and
Mercury were all visible simultaneously in the west-northwest sky, shortly after sundown.
See also:
