Venus, Jupiter make their closest approach during August conjunction. Here's how to see

Venus and Jupiter are about to get up close and personal in our skies.

The two planets – the brightest in our solar system – have been steadily approaching each other for the past several August nights. Now, the next two nights should be when Venus and Jupiter appear to be the closest to one another – from Earth's vantage, at least – during their monthlong planetary conjunction.

The rendezvous between Venus and the gas giant Jupiter, our solar system's largest planet, is among the top stargazing highlights for the month of August, NASA said in a monthly skywatching guide. Celestial observers can also spot the so-called "dumbbell nebula" in the skies throughout the month.

The best news for skygazers? Spotting Venus and Jupiter in the sky shouldn't require any special equipment or much astronomical expertise.

Here's what to know about the Venus-Jupiter conjunction, and how to see the two bright planets in August.