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Wales Online
Wales Online
National
Shivali Best & Sion Morgan

You can see the moon 'swallowing' Saturn tonight in bizarre lunar event

Stargazers across the world are gearing up for a unique event tonight.

A lunar occultation will see the moon overlap with the ringed planet of Saturn in the night sky.

Or, to put it in simple terms, it will look like the moon has swallowed the gas giant planet.

It is expected the sight will be visible across the world (although South America and southern Africa will have the best view.)

When can I see it?

According to the Mirror Saturn will be visible from around 01:00am local time - the planet will look like a tiny pinprick of light next to the moon.

But the closest occultation, or ‘swallowing’ will take place at 04.59am local time.

To catch this special moment, you’ll need to be quick - the full occultation lasts just two minutes!

After the moon ‘swallows’ Saturn, it will then spit the planet back out, as it reemerges on the other side.

For your best chance of seeing the event, try to head to an area of little light pollution, such as the countryside.

If you have a telescope, this will come in handy, although the event should be visible with the naked eye.

Stunning timelapse of the Harvest Moon rising over Llandudno
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