Convergence
Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach, Oregon
The 2020 Great Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn at Nautical Dusk over Haystack Rock and the Pacific Ocean along the Oregon Coast, Cannon Beach, Oregon
The Great Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn shines brightly at Nautical Dusk over Haystack Rock as the alignment reflects on the receding tide. This rare event, often called "the Christmas Star" due to its proximity to the holiday in 2020, was captured under clear skies (a rarity for the Oregon Coast in December). Partial moonlight from a 69.1% Waxing Gibbous Moon provided the natural illumination for the sea stack and beach, preserving the authentic color temperature of the coastal atmosphere.
Historical Note
This was an extremely rare astronomical event. Jupiter and Saturn appeared less than 0.1 degrees apart. They have not appeared this close together during a conjunction since 1623, a span of almost 400 years ago. They have not appeared this close together at night since 1226, a span of almost 800 years. The next time they will appear this close together is 2080, after which they won't appear this close together until 2417. Both 2080 and 2417 will occur in the morning, not at night. The next time they will appear this close together in alignment at night is 2477.
Technical Specifications
- Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mark III
- Lens: Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II USM
- Settings: 50mm | f/4 | 6.0 Seconds | ISO 3200
- Process: Single Exposure | Bespoke Multi-Layer Noise Management (Manual Masking to preserve details)
Note on Provenance
This image is a certified Single Exposure of a rare astronomical event that won't occur again at night until the year 2477, making it a true once in a lifetime occurrence. Captured using the "Mead Method" developed over 15 years of nightscape experience. No trackers, no sky-swaps, and no generative AI. Just a single moment in time, preserved.
Photo © copyright by James Mead.