Saturn will be a prominent feature in the night sky for both professional and amateur astronomers this month. On Sunday, September 21, Saturn will reach opposition, a position where Earth aligns directly between the planet and the sun. This alignment will make Saturn appear its largest and brightest of the year, according to NASA.

In addition to Saturn, Venus and Jupiter will also be visible in the eastern sky during the morning hours. NASA noted that Saturn will be exceptionally bright, making it easily observable with the naked eye.

Saturn's opposition will occur on September 21, and it will remain visible throughout the month. Stargazers can expect a new moon on the same day, which means the moon's light will not hinder visibility of the planet at night.

During the evening, Saturn will be located in the eastern sky, gradually moving to the western sky as the night progresses. Observers do not need any special equipment to see Saturn, although a small telescope can enhance the viewing experience. Stargazing apps like Stellarium or Sky Safari can assist in locating the planet in the night sky.

For those planning to stargaze outdoors, it is advisable to bring mosquito repellent and check the weather forecast to ensure clear skies.

On the same day as Saturn's opposition, a partial solar eclipse will occur. However, this eclipse will not be visible in the United States; it will be seen in regions such as Australia, Antarctica, and parts of the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. This event marks the second eclipse in September, following a total lunar eclipse that took place from September 7 to September 8, which was also not visible in the U.S.

The fall equinox will follow on Monday, September 22. This event occurs twice a year, in March and September, when day and night are of equal length. NASA explains that the equinox marks the moment when the sun crosses the equator, resulting in the sun being directly overhead at noon for observers at the equator.