Brace yourselves: tonight, an extraordinary event will happen in space – the “great conjunction” of Jupiter and Saturn. The biggest planets in the Solar System will align in the sky, providing not only a spectacle for people around the world to witness but also bringing a huge astrological impact. Let V break it down to you.

What exactly is happening?

A conjunction happens when two planets align in the sky, as seen from Earth, and when they are Jupiter and Saturn, it is called a “great conjunction.” Those two planets meet in the sky about every 20 years – often coinciding with major cultural and political events. 

In 2020, a series of factors made this occurrence even more special. Tonight, the two giants will appear the closest in nearly 400 years, and this will be the first time in nearly 800 years that the event occurs at night, making it visible with the unaided eye for nearly everyone on Earth. 

With a little over a week before the year ends, many people are calling it the “Christmas Star.” This year’s great conjunction also coincides with the winter solstice in the Northern Hemisphere, the longest night of the year – a date that traditionally symbolizes the rebirth of the Sun and the start of a new cycle. 

The great conjunction in astrology

Another thing that sets this great conjunction apart is that this will be the first time in two centuries that Jupiter and Saturn will not meet in an earth sign, but instead, they will meet in the air sign of Aquarius, a sign connected to social change, innovation, and humanitarianism. Cue everything that’s happened in 2020 so far.

Earth signs are linked to the material, such as money, assets, and accomplishments. Air signs, however, are associated with the mind, communication, and an emphasis on technology. Because of its open-minded nature, Aquarius is also connected to the LGBTQIA+ community. Some astrologers believe this could represent the start of a more tolerant era when people will be able to openly express their sexualities and gender identities without being judged. 

Both planets are related to authority and leadership, but each in a different way. Jupiter would be a more “chill” leader, focused on health, prosperity, and fun, while Saturn highlights responsibility, rules, and limits. When the two align, expect power struggles.    

Astrologer Susan Miller wrote on her blog that the event “sets the tone for the ethos for the next 20 years affecting the arts, music, theatre, literature, entertainment, designer fashion, food, music, mathematics, science, politics, and the government agenda.” She also noted that Jupiter and Saturn will only meet in air signs in the next great conjunctions, aligning in Libra in 2040 and in Gemini in 2060. 

What does this mean for you?

On a more personal level, the great conjunction represents an opportunity to accomplish progress and develop new projects. This is the time to grow and focus on positive changes – including picking up on ideas and tasks you may have postponed and resolving conflicts to start off this new era as fresh as possible. Change can be uncomfortable, but try to look at things more optimistically. 

You can also use some stones and crystals to help you feel more connected to this major event. The moonstone is the stone of “new beginnings” and is associated with strength and inner growth, helping you rest your mind and view shifts more positively. The amazonite is connected to hope and success, urging action and energy for new endeavors. And the clear quartz, known as the “master healer,” is believed to help memory and concentration. Check out V’s selection of healing crystals for more.