Saturn ring-plane crossing
4 September 2009
Rare Saturn ring plane crossing occurs during IYA2009
On 4 September, an impressive cosmic coincidence will take place. For Earth-bound observers, Saturn's rings will appear edge on. As they are so thin compared to the planet, they effectively seem to disappear from view. So, the ringed planet will appear ringless! These occurrences are infrequent, with the next not happening until 23 March 2025.
For more information about Saturn's rings and plane crossings, please visit: http://www2.jpl.nasa.gov/saturn/faq.html
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The International Year of Astronomy 2009 is endorsed by the United Nations and the International Council of Science.
