Scientists-astronomers and amateur astronomers in July will be able to see a rare astronomical phenomenon – the great confrontation of Mars. The red planet is approaching the Earth at the closest possible distance once every 15-17 years. In 2018, the great confrontation of Mars will occur on July 27.
Scientists have calculated that this year Mars “will approach” to our planet by about 57.8 million kilometers.
The last convergence of the Red Planet with the Earth was recorded by astronomers on August 28, 2003. Then, 15 years ago, the distance reached 55.79 million kilometers.
Mars is the fourth planet from the Sun. Scientists are always interested in this planet. Several dozens of missions were sent to Mars, about 40 – simple spans, orbital probes. The Red Planet was powered by Curiosity, MAVEN and Indian Mangalian. In 2016, Mars landed ExoMars and InSight.
