Time running out to see 'Bethlehem Star' in NZ night sky

Published: Dec. 20, 2020, 7:56 p.m.

The giants of our solar system have aligned, giving New Zealand star gazers a chance to witness a once-in-a-lifetime celestial event. It's hundreds of years since Jupiter and Saturn have appeared this close together - as viewed from earth - and it will a long time before it happens again. It's known by some as the "Bethlehem Star". Dr Ian Griffin is a noted astronomer and director of the Otago museum.