Saturn's rings will nearly vanish this weekend—how to watch
Heads up, space fans: This Sunday (November 23), Saturn's famous rings will almost disappear from view as Earth lines up with the planet's ring plane.
Instead of their usual wide look, the rings will shrink to a super-thin line—almost like they're vanishing—for about a week, although they will appear extremely narrow for about two weeks.
Why is this a big deal?
Ring plane crossings only happen every 13-15 years, so astronomers get pretty excited.
With the rings dimmed, it's easier to spot Saturn's hidden moons and study how the rings are built.
Fun fact: scientists discovered moons like Janus and Epimetheus during past crossings!
How can you see it?
Grab any small telescope and look southeast after sunset—the effect is best in mid-southern latitudes right now.
The "disappearing" act peaks in late November, but don't worry if you miss it; Saturn's rings will slowly come back into view over the next couple of years.