In the early hours of Tuesday, 12 August 2025, Venus and Jupiter, the two brightest planets in the sky, will appear so close together that they will look like they are “kissing.”
Venus Jupiter conjunction: when and where to see it
This rare meeting is called a venus jupiter conjunction.
According to Live Science, the planets will be less than a degree apart — about the width of your pinkie finger held at arm’s length.
You can see them without any equipment, but binoculars or a small telescope will make the view even better.
The pair will rise in the east at around 03:00 (09:00 SAST) and remain visible until sunrise at about 06:00 (12:00 SAST), local time.
They will appear in the constellation Gemini and climb about 20 degrees above the horizon. A flat viewing area without trees or buildings blocking the eastern sky will give the best results.
What you’ll see through a telescope
Venus will appear bright and may show a crescent or partial phase, similar to the moon, while Jupiter may reveal its cloud bands and even the Great Red Spot — a massive storm twice as wide as Earth. You might also spot some of Jupiter’s moons as small points of light nearby.
Although the moon will still be bright that night (a waning gibbous, 90–95% full), it will be on the opposite side of the sky, so it won’t completely wash out the planets’ glow.
The astrological meaning of the Venus Jupiter conjunction
In astrology, Venus represents love, beauty, and relationships, while Jupiter symbolises growth, luck, and abundance.
When they meet in a conjunction, it is believed to bring positive energy, opportunities, and feelings of optimism.
Astrologers say the 12 August event could particularly affect people with strong placements in Gemini, Sagittarius, Libra, and Aquarius. These signs might experience boosts in relationships, career opportunities, or creative ideas.
Even if you don’t follow astrology, the sight of two bright planets so close together can be uplifting — a reminder of the vast and beautiful universe above us.
If clouds or timing get in the way, Venus and Jupiter will still appear close to each other for a couple of nights after the conjunction, though they will slowly drift apart as August ends.