'Christmas Star' Great Conjunction wows stargazers across the region

SALINE COUNTY - A rare planetary occurrence, the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn, brought stargazers out across the region Monday evening.

The planetary alignment frequently has been referred to as the "Christmas Star" because it is occurring close to Christmas. Various astronomical theories vary, but some astronomers have speculated that a similar conjunction may have occurred about the time of the birth of Jesus Christ. In the Gospel of Matthew, what is referred to as the Star of Bethlehem was a major astronomical occurrence that guided the Magi, or Wise Men, to Jesus' birthplace.

German astronomer Johannes Kepler was one notable early scientist who believed the Great Conjunction may have been what the Magi saw

The Great Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn has occurred very infrequently over the years. The last time the two planets, which actually are about 450 million miles apart, appeared this close was in the year 1623, though it could not be seen as easily. The last time the event was easily visible was in the year 1226.

And, while Monday night some observers said the two planets appeared nearly to "touch," Saturn and Jupiter will be visible close to each other for several days.