Jupiter and Venus to 'collide' in the sky in 'jaw-dropping close encounter'

USA: Jupiter and Venus are to converge in the night skies this month, creating a spectacular event for stargazers.

The two brightest planets in the night’s sky are converging for what NASA is describing as a "jaw-dropping close encounter".

“You don’t want to miss any of the action,” the space agency says in a video.

To view the phenomenon you have to go outside and look west just as the Sun goes down - you don’t even have to wait until the sky is fully dark.

Jupiter and Venus have been steadily coming together during the month so far and are now around 10 degrees apart - meaning you can hide them both at the same time behind the palm of your outstretched hand.

The main event to look out for is on June 30, when Jupiter and Venus are so close they almost look like they are colliding - you’ll be able to block them both out with an outstretched little finger.

Before then, there are some other visual treats for space fans. On June 19, stargazers will be able to see the planets right forming a bright triangle with the crescent Moon as the third point.

It's on this night that it’s a good idea to check out the trio through a telescope. You’ll be able to see the fat crescent phase of Venus, Jupiter’s moons and details on the surface of our own Moon.