Most of us are trying to connect with nature in order to feel calm amid the COVID-19 stress. Waking up to birds chirping in our balconies or gazing at the beautiful and clear sky post-dinner is something that personally calms me. Let’s face it, the only good that has come out of coronavirus pandemic is that nature is recuperating and we aren’t complaining about that at all. From flamingos being spotted at otherwise-polluted Mumbai wetlands to Olive Ridley turtles nesting in Odisha, nature is indeed taking over.
To add to that, India’s Air Quality Index (AQI) has improved under lockdown and air pollution in North India is the lowest it has ever been in the last twenty years. That has made the sky clearer and there could be no better time than now for the celestial world to grant us another gift. Reportedly, Planet Venus will now make our stargazing experience even more worthwhile as it is set to shine the brightest on April 28 in India, even brighter than the brightest star Sirius.
Why Is The ‘Evening Star’ Venus Shining The Brightest?
For those who do not know, Venus is the brightest natural object in our sky after the moon and the sun. In fact, it has been visible in the night sky all month long due to the absence of pollution but it is about to look even more spectacular now.
According to Earth Sky, after a close encounter with the moon on April 26, Earth’s neighbouring planet will be shining the brightest on April 27 (eastern parts of the world) and 28 (in India). This will happen as ‘the illuminated portion of Venus covers the greatest square area of the sky’s dome.’ Venus, will, therefore, be ‘nearly three times brighter than at its faintest,’ claims Earth Sky.
How & When To Spot The Brightest Venus In India
Venus will be at its brightest best at different times across the world due to distinct time zones. It will start illuminating at its peak at 9:00 pm Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) on April 27. But in India, it would be visible at only around 6:30 am on Tuesday morning.
However, keep in mind that you do not step out of your house to see the evening star. You can take a look from your balcony and terrace and hence, don’t need to violate the lockdown rules. Let’s hope that the celestial sight brings hope and and calm amid these trying times. Happy watching!
Featured Image: Twitter
