BOISE, Idaho — A celestial phenomenon 800 years in the making will shine over Idaho and the rest of the world Monday night.
Jupiter and Saturn will align on Dec. 21 to form what's known as the 'Great Conjunction.' The two planets will be so close in the night sky that they will appear as a single shining object, referred to also as the "Christmas star."
The "Christmas star" will appear in the southwest sky for the first hour after sunset, slated Monday for 5:11 p.m.
The forecast Monday calls for clouds, but lucky viewers may still be able to catch a glimpse of the 'Great Conjunction' if cloud cover lifts. KTVB meteorologist Larry Gebert estimated there is about a 40% chance of seeing the unusual alignment.
"If you any extra Gold, Frankincense and myrrh then follow what appears to be a star to my home in Garden City," Gebert said. "You can leave your gifts at the door."
Those clouds are expected to bring rain showers Monday night, changing into snow Tuesday morning.
Monday also marks the first day of winter and the Winter Solstice - the shortest day of the entire year.