inferior conjunction
astronomy
Quick Summary
In astronomy, an inferior conjunction occurs when an inferior planet, meaning one with an orbit smaller than Earth's (Venus or Mercury), aligns between the Earth and the Sun. During this alignment, the planet passes approximately between the Earth and the Sun. If the planet moves directly across the Sun's face as viewed from Earth, this event is called a transit.12
The Moon also experiences a conjunction with the Sun during the New Moon phase, when it lies between the Earth and the Sun, making the side facing Earth appear dark.2
Summary created from Britannica articles
using AI.
AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
2 Britannica Sources
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.
