Astronomers still wondering about the ‘Star of Wonder’

Astronomers have proposed a variety of sources over the years for the Christmas star — comets, a supernova or a grouping of planets.

The actual astronomical events of the time suggest a solution, according to Griffith Observatory astronomer John Mosley.

Mosley’s 1987 book “The Christmas Star” examines the sky during the time frame that historians assume Jesus was born, between 3 B.C. and A.D. 1.

One would also assume that the Star of Bethlehem could be observed by skywatchers elsewhere in the world, and not just by the Magi — who were actually priests who relied on astrology.

 These assumptions rule out comets, brightening stars known as novae, and exploding stars known as supernovae.

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