December 30, 2022
In our solar system, planets closer to the sun are called inferior. Planets that are further from the sun are called superior. Superior planets are always at their best during what is called opposition. This is when they are closest to Earth for the year. Mars reached opposition earlier this month and won’t reach it again for another 26 months.
Possible position of Inferior and Superior planets when viewed from Earth. Image credit: ESO.