BANGKOK, 3 March 2012 (NNT) – National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand has urged astronomers to be ready for a spectacular phenomenon in which the Sun, Earth and Mars are in alignment.

Mars will reportedly be opposite to the Sun this Saturday and will be closest to Earth on Monday. This phenomenon, which occurs every two years, enables people to see Mars brighter than ever throughout the night.

On March 5, Mars will rise in the northeast direction at 18.16 hours and will fall in the northwest direction at 6.41 hours on March 6.

The latest close approach of Mars to Earth was reported on January 28, 2010. Such an orbit is forecast to recur on April 14, 2014.

Those interested in witnessing the phenomenon are welcome to join the star-gazing activities at the Thai Astronomical Society, starting on March 3.

Source: NNT