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324331
Sat, 04/12/2014 - 00:31
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Mars to make closest approach to Earth on April 14

BANGKOK, April 11 (TNA) - National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (Public Organization) (NARIT), under the Ministry of Science and Technology, reports that Mars will make its closest approach to Earth in seven years on April 14, 2014, inviting people to observe the rare phenomenon. NARIT Deputy Director Dr. Saran Posayajinda told journalists on Friday that Mars was on the opposite side to the Sun on April 9 and will make its closest approach to Earth in seven years, at about 92.39 million kilometres away, on April 14. According to the NARIT deputy director, the Red Planet will rise in the southeastern sky in the Virgo Constellation after 6pm on April 14 and will appear bigger and brighter than any other stars until it sets in the morning of April 15. The NARIT deputy director said Mars will, therefore, be visible to people's naked eyes and details on its surface can be observed through small telescopes. Mars and Earth usually align and become closer every two years. The last time Mars was close to Earth was on March 5, 2012 and the next time will be on May 31, 2016. (TNA)

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