Mars to come closest to Earth in 11 years

Mars is set to reach its closest point to our planet in 11 years - offering a rare treat for astronomy fans.
Mars. Picture: NASA.Mars. Picture: NASA.
Mars. Picture: NASA.

On Bank Holiday Monday, May 30, the Red Planet will be 47.2 million miles from Earth and will remain close and bright for the first two weeks of June.

The planet will be visible for much of the night if the skies are clear and should be able to be seen without a telescope or binoculars.

Sometimes Mars is 250 million miles away from Earth.

If you miss this year's close approach, Earth and Mars will be even closer on July 31, 2018. They'll come about 35.8 million miles from each other then.